CONSULTATION DRAFT

PADDLING ON THE TIDEWAY A Code of Practice for Paddling on the Tidal Thames

CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ...... 2–3

TIDE & STREAM ...... 4–7 PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION 24–39 COMMUNICATION & REPORTING 46–49 Ebb, flood tide & tidal stream . . . . 4–5 BASIC PRINCIPLES London VTS ...... 46 Factors affecting the tide & stream . . . 6 Accessing the river ...... 24 VHF radio communications . . . . . 46 Set of the tide ...... 6 Port & starboard ...... 24 Incident reporting ...... 47 Fluvial flow ...... 7 Lookout ...... 25 Emergencies ...... 48 General navigation rules (Col Regs) . . 26 RNLI & other emergency services . . . 49 BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT ...... 8–11 Positioning on the river ...... 27 UPPER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS 50–57 Planning a trip ...... 8 Right of way ...... 27 Topical river information ...... 8 Group management ...... 28 The Upper Tideway ...... 50–51 Who is afloat? ...... 8 Solo paddling ...... 28 Teddington Lock to Syon Crossing 52–53 Weather conditions ...... 9 Crossing the river ...... 29 Syon Crossing to Chiswick Bridge 54–55 Tide & water conditions ...... 10 Avoiding collisions ...... 30 Chiswick Bridge to Putney Bridge 56–57 Time of day ...... 10 Overtaking ...... 31 Experience ...... 11 Bridges ...... 32 CENTRAL LONDON 58–65 Group management ...... 11 Piers, buoys and moorings...... 33 Central London ...... 58–59 (Inside front cover) Group briefing ...... 11 Shouted warnings...... 34 Putney Bridge to Chelsea Bridge . . . 60 Dynamic risk assessment ...... 11 Sound signals...... 34–35 Chelsea Bridge to Tower Bridge . . . 61 FURTHER PRINCIPLES Heart of London ...... 62 EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING 12–23 What is working the slacks?...... 36 Westminster (& Embankment) . . . . 63 Personal floatation devices (PFD) . 12–13 Rowing Code Areas ...... 37 Bankside Pier ...... 64 Boat Buoyancy ...... 13 Paddled boats working the slacks. . 38–39 HMS Belfast & the Upper Pool . . . 65 Personal clothing & equipment . . . . 14 Additional kit for group leaders . . . . 14 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES . . . 40–45 LOWER AREA DIRECTIONS . . . 66–69 Boat choice ...... 15 Personal responsibility ...... 40 Lower Tideway ...... 66 Kayaks ...... 16 Group leaders’ responsibility ...... 40 Lower Rowing Code Area ...... 67 Canoes ...... 17 Responsibilities of clubs etc...... 41 Tower Bridge to Greenwich . . . . . 68 Stand-up paddleboards ...... 18 Commercial paddling...... 41 Greenwich to the Thames Barrier . . . 69 Outrigger canoes ...... 19 Events’ responsibilities...... 42 Dragon boats ...... 19 Qualifications & restrictions ...... 43 Boat Identification ...... 20 British Canoeing & PLA...... 44 APPENDICES 113_116 Paddling in the dark & poor visibility . . 21 Environment ...... 44 Contacts ...... 70 Lighting your boat ...... 22-23 Pollution & health ...... 45 Acknowledgements ...... 72 2 1 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 2 INTRODUCTION and theSea. users andthoseplanningtonavigatebetweenTeddington (BC) haveproduced thiscodetoadvisebothexisting The PortofLondonAuthority(PLA)andBritishCanoeing creates achallengingwaterwayonwhichtonavigate. fast-flowing tideandmanybridges,piersmoorings, busiest inlandwaterwayintheUKwhich,coupledwitha of theriverandhowitoperates.TheTidewayisbyfar Thames Tidewayasitisalsoknown,requires knowledge Navigating anypaddledboatonthetidalThames,or Paddling ontheTideway CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT - ACodeofPracticeforPaddlingonthetidalThames consideration forotherriverusers. with appropriate goodenvironmental practiceand should berisk-assessedandundertakensafely correctly equipped forbusytidalwaters.Activities and thattheboatsbeingusedare suitableand participants cancopewiththeexpectedconditions individuals andcommercial providers toensure all It istheresponsibility ofclubs,organisations, • • • • the following: As wellasthePaddlingandRowingCodes,paddlers shouldalsorefer to www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Rowing The RowingCodecanbefoundonthePLAleisure userswebsite knowledge of“RowingontheTideway”,especiallyin theUpperarea . their ownCodeofPracticeandpaddlersare advisedtohaveaworking participants havetheirbacktothedirection oftravel.Rowershave Paddling doesnotincludeanytypeofrowing boats,i.ewhere the • • • • • are highlighted throughout theCode: boat .There are slightlydifferent rulesforeachoftheseboattypeswhich This PaddlingCodeessentiallyrefers tofive different types ofpaddled Types ofpaddledboat www.britishcanoeing.org.uk/guidance-resources/waterways-environment/ www.rnli.org/safety/respect-the-water/activities/Pages/kayaking.aspx RNLI publication: “KayakingSafety Pack”–alsoseepage12 environment” –alsoseepage45 British Canoeingpublication: “You, yourcanoeandthemarine PLA publication:“TheTidal UsersGuide” Thames-Recreational PLA Leisure userswebsite:www.boatingonthethames.co.uk Dragon boats–page19 Outrigger canoes–page19 Stand-up paddleboards (SUP)–page18 Canoes –page17 Kayaks –page16 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT of anincident. is notadefence intheevent Ignorance of theregulations on thePLAwebsite–pla.co.uk can befoundintheirentirety review andthelatest additions regulations under regular The PLAkeepsallits recognition. coloured panelforeaseof Code theyare enclosedina regulations are quotedinthis regulations. Where navigational and recognise thesevarious Code must,inpart,refer to By itsverynature, thePaddling • • • • • number ofways: on thetidalThamesina (PLA) whoregulate navigation of thePortLondonAuthority comes underthejurisdiction estuary andTeddington Lock The tidalThamesbetweenthe

Notices toMariners(NtMs) General Directions Thames Byelaws Port ofLondonAct (Col Regs) Collision Regulations 3 INTRODUCTION CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Ebb tide, flood tide and the tidal stream TIDE & STREAM

The Thames below Teddington Lock is a tidal river and To avoid any confusion, this code presumes the High water at High water at navigation is essentially based around the behaviour of normal state of the stream and tide flowing in the High water at Kew Bridge Chelsea Bridge + 50 minutes + 15 minutes London Bridge High water the tide, which changes constantly . same direction . This direction of flow is referred to (0 minutes) at Woolwich The tidal rise and fall can be as much as seven metres as the ‘tidal stream’ . High water at - 25 minutes and the flow can reach 4 knots – more around bridge Tables of predicted tide times are available on the Greenwich Pier buttresses etc . – so attention must be paid to both the PLA website and there are various other websites - 15 minutes direction and the strength of the tide and stream . and smart phone apps . that can also provide this High water at Putney Bridge TIDE & STREAM Paddlers need to be especially aware of the tide direction information . with regard to working the slacks against the tide and how + 30 minutes The Ebb tide (dropping) Apart from tide tables, which show predicted this affects navigation, particularly with regards to rowing is when the tidal stream is flowing outbound tide times, there are several ways to check the boats above Putney . More detailed information can be This diagram shows approximate time differences tidal stream direction, although you must always High water at Teddington lock found on pages 36–39 . +1 hour for high water between Woolwich and Teddington account for the strength and direction of the wind: It is therefore vital that you understand the tidal stream conditions and tidal sets – see page 6 – and maintain • Look at boats moored only at one end, they will situational awareness at all times . On the Tideway the hang downstream from their mooring tide will always turn first at the estuary . • See what direction floating objects drift in • Look at which direction the water is flowing past Low water at What is ‘the stream’? Low water at a bridge buttress or buoy - see below Low water at Kew Bridge Chelsea Bridge The visible flow on the surface of the river is referred to + 2 hours 45 minutes + 45 minutes London Bridge Low water by many Thames paddlers and rowers as ‘the stream’ . (0 minutes) at Woolwich - 40 minutes Although they almost always flow in the same direction, Low water at the stream’s direction can occasionally differ slightly from Greenwich Pier that of the tide . Low water - 20 minutes This effect happens during periods of prelonged, heavy at Putney Bridge rainfall when there may continue to be a visible outbound + 1 hour 40 minutes flow even though there is an inbound flood tide . During The Flood tide (rising) this rare occurrence, known as swelling, paddlers above DIRECTION OF TIDAL STREAM is when the tidal stream is flowing inbound Putney should navigate according to the visible stream Low water at Teddington lock This diagram shows approximate time differences direction and not the tide predictions . (n/a due to Richmond half-tide lock) for low water between Woolwich and Teddington 4 5 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 6 TIDE & STREAM only occurs duringthe wintermonths afterheavy rain. See page4fordetails .Swellingisrare andgenerally Swelling down asfarKewBridge andsometimesbeyond. also hasaneffect ontheriverflow andlowwaterlevel its naturallevel,whichismuch lowerthanusual.This water formaintenance.Thisallowstherivertodrain to the half-tidebarrieratRichmond isleftopenoverlow The draw-off usuallylastsforfour weeks andiswhen Draw-offs (normallyOctober–November) at all. flowing .Indeed,thefloodtidemaynot really feature It maybehard totellwhichwaythetidalstream is noticeable andconfusingeffect onthetidalstream . When theThamesBarrierisclosed,itwillhavea Thames Barrierclosures the riverdifferently alongitscourse. when planningatriptoremember thatwindwillaffect The Tidewaymeandersconsiderablysoitisimportant impression ofthetidalstream direction . Sometimes averystrong windcangiveafalse difficult conditions,especiallyathightide. chop upthetopofwaterandcanmakeforvery speed upthestream .Ifitisagainstthetide,will If thewindisinsamedirection asthetideitwill The windcanhaveaconsiderableeffect on theriver Wind Factors affecting thetidalstream CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT . outside ofthebend. the tidalsetwillnaturallypushboatstowards the Fairway navigation istostayonthestarboard sideofthe Around thisbendduringanebbtide,thecorrect See theexampleshownbelow: a boat. not bethecorrect navigationalcourseexpectedof However, thenaturalcourseoftidalstream may to itsnaturalcoursearound theoutsideofabend. caused bythetidalstream whichwillalways‘set’ Paddlers needtobeaware ofthetidalset.Thisis Tidal ‘set’ , towards theinsideofbend.However danger bythetidalset . pushed outof positionorinto navigational line andnotbe steer tostayon thecorrect Paddlers shouldactively system tohelpjudgeifpaddlersare suitably experiencedfortheconditions. Teddington butontheTidewayitonlyappliestoanebbtide.Usethis to paddlers.Itissimilarthered andyellowboard systemused above systemisinplacetohelpindicatethespeedofriver A flagwarning system Ebb tideflagwarning make therivermore difficulttonavigateonandinsomecases,dangerous . stream toincrease inspeed.Whencombinedwithanebbtidethiscan tide .Afterheavyrainfall,thefluvialflowwillincrease causingtheoutbound reason thattheriverfillsupveryquicklywhenitmeetsinbound(flood) Thames .There is alwayswaterflowingoutbound(downriver)andisthe Fluvial flowistheamountofwaterflowingdownriver from thenon-tidal Fluvial flow CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT to-Mariners Notices-to-Mariners/Notices- Regulations-and-Guidance/ www website: Mariners pageonthePLA available viatheNotices to closures orDraw-offs are scheduled ThamesBarrier Other informationregarding PLA website–pla.couk sourced onlineonthemain This informationcanalsobe all clubwebsites. which shouldbeinstalledon It isalsoprovided asawidget boatingonthethames .couk on thePLAleisure website– This adviceisupdateddaily Notice toMarinersP232014 advice, asdetailedin should monitorandnotethe and allman-powered vessels ofabnormalfluvialflows warn Tide FlagWarning’ systemto The PLAprovide an‘Ebb

.placouk/Safety/ 7 STREAM & TIDE 8 BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT media, particularlyTwitter: is alsoavailableviasocial Topical riverinformation Annual-Events-Calendar www happening ontheTideway shows allrecreational events events calendarwhich The PLAalsohaveanonline the PLAwebsite–pla.couk Notices are alsoavailableon stretch oftheriver. These Mariners pertainingtotheir receive, byemail,Noticesto website toautomatically should sign-uponthePLA All clubsandgroup leaders @ocukcoach @TowerRNLI @ChiswickRNLI @BritishCanoeing @Thames21 @ThamesPoo @MrSafeT_Tideway @AlanBarrierEA @LondonPortAuth .placouk/Events/ CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT set to communicate withVTSor tosummon helpinanemergency mobile phone (inabuoyant,waterproof case)orapersonal VHFradio Group leaders,smallgroups andsolopaddlersshould carryeithera or VHF–page46 below PutneyBridge.LondonVTScanbecontacted byeitherphone VTS mustalwaysbeinformed ofpaddlersgoingafloatinthedark advised toinformLondon VTS priortogoingafloatandon .London return In additiontosigning-out(or innon-clubsituations)paddlersare strongly displayed nearthesigning-out board . should bepartoftheclub’s standard operatingprocedures andideallybe also knowwhattodoifaboatfailsreturn orisoverdue .Thisinformation and whentheyexpecttoreturn, incaseofanaccident.Membersshould Clubs are strongly advisedtokeepalogorsign-out board ofwhoisafloat Who isafloat? PLA website. regarding theThamesTidewaywhichisavailable via emailalertsandthe Recreational riverusersmustbeaware oftheinformationandguidance Topical riverinformation–seepanelleft the plannedtrip. coerced) intogoingafloatiftheyare notcomfortablewithanyaspectof Inexperienced paddlersshouldnotbecoerced (orallowthemselvestobe problem withyourequipment,knowledge,experienceorfitness. Do notproceed withatripiftheoutcomeofthesechecksshowsup which mayaffect theirtrip. member oragroup leadertoensure thattheyhaveassessedallfactors It istheresponsibility ofallpaddlerswhetherpaddlingsolo,asagroup Planning atrip . ability for large motorvessels tospot smallboats. Rain canalso seriouslyreduce visibility, particularlythe also windy You willfeelmuchcolderwhen wetespeciallyifitis Rain canverymuchaffect theperceived temperature . Rain lead toexposure andevenexhaustion,especiallyifwet. which willlowerthelevelat whichcoldisfeltandcan The windcanhaveanextrachillingeffect onthebody wind direction . buildings, where there canalsobesuddenchangesof and around bridgearches aswellinareas withtall Wind speedscanvaryandnoticeablyincrease through can create steepstandingwaves. Wind againsttideisaseriousfactortoconsiderasit the windintoaccount. effect ofthewindalthoughallsmallboats must take SUPs andopenboatsare particularlyvulnerabletothe Wind physically demandinginamatterofminutes. motor vessels.Conditionscanbecomeawkward and water, especiallywhencombinedwithwashesfrom conditions cancreate bigwavesandverychoppy small boats.Theriverisoftenexposedandweather a significanteffect onthesafetyandhandlingof Weather conditionsonthetidalThamescanhave Weather conditions . CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT elapsed since thelastvisible lightning. No oneshould goafloatunless30minutes have get off theriverassoonpossible . If youexperiencelightning inyourvicinityyoushould Lightning do notshowuponradar motor vesselsmayhaveradar, smallpaddledboats serious hazard thandarknessand,althoughlarge you shouldfindasafehaven.Fogisoftenmore If youencounterreduced visibilityduringanouting narrower than200maboveHammersmith. 200m wideatPutneyandHammersmithBridgesbut For example:theriveris300mwideatGreenwich, bank clearlythenyoushouldnotgoafloat. A goodguideisthatifyoucannotseetheopposite afloat unlessthevisibilityismore than200m. prone tofogandnoattemptshouldbemadego As wellasraincausingviabilityissues,theTidewayis Visibility physically demandingascoldweather the durationofyourtrip.Very hotweathercanbeas considered whendecidingonwhatkittowearand High temperatures aswellcoldonesshouldbe Temperature

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. 9 AFLOAT GO YOU BEFORE 10 BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT • • • • • wind direction andtidalsets: the river, especiallywithregard tothestateoftide, this canaffect waterconditionsondifferent partsof its course,itistherefore importanttounderstandhow The ThamesTidewaymeandersconsiderablyalong Tidal andwaterconditions Planning atrip and Weir undergoing maintenance (the“Draw-off”)? e .gistheThames BarriershutorisRichmond Lock Will anything else affectthewater? flag? What colouris theEbbtidewarning where youcanexitsafely egress points.Whenyouplananouting find out foreshore exposedand in placesthere are few high tidecanbedifficult, as there islittleorno Also gettingoff therivertwohours eithersideof will berelatively slow space .Towards theendofanebbtidestream Low tidemeansbetterwaterbutshallowsandless High tidemeanslumpierwaterbutmore space. How highisthetide? change oftide. as muchpossible.Planreturn tripsaround the Long tripsare bestarrangedtogowiththetide tochange? When isthetidepredicted a factoronyourintendedcourse? Will thedirection ofthewindortidalsetsbecome ofthetide? What isthedirection . . CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT See next section–pages 12–23 Equipment and Clothing • • • Time forSUPs restrictions the quietestconditions. London before for 10.00amonweekendmornings strongly encourageleisure crafttotransitCentral beginning ataround 10.00amThePLAtherefore run atweekendsbutsightseeingtripsstilloperate, so inthesummermonths.Commuterservicesdon’t Central Londonisalmostalwaysbusybutevenmore rowing activity very busyintheUpperArea where there isalotof Weekend andsummereveningsare mornings often Consider thetimeofdaywhenplanningyourtrip. Time ofday No paddlingafter dark Below ChelseaBridge traffic incentralLondon Friday and30 No paddlingbetween11:00 and18:00from Good (in additiontotheabove) Between ChelseaBridgeandTower Bridge movements atWandsworth high water(atLondonBridge)duetofreight vessel No paddlingthree hoursbefore andonehourafter Below PutneyPier . th September .Duetobusycommercial management –page 28–andemergency situations –pages 48–49. in thissection andalsoincludeanyrelevant information regarding group before goingafloat.Thebriefing shouldcoverallofthepoints detailed important that allare briefedbyanexperienced leaderonwhatto expect In situationswhere agroup orforinstructionitis isgoingoutfor ajourney Group briefings SUP groups shouldhaveaminimum 1:4ratioofleaderstopaddlers. Clubs andorganisations shouldproduce theirownguidelinesforthis. on theexperienceofgroup andwhere ontherivertheyare paddling. sufficient ratioofleaderstoparticipants.Thiswillvarydepending As wellasleadershavingsuitablequalifications,groups shouldhavea a suitablyqualifiedleader participants thenconsidersplittingthemintosmaller groups, eachwith A ‘group’ shouldconsistofnomore than10–15boats.Ifthere are more Group management–seepage28and43 forfurtherguidence • • • • and weatherconditions: group, shouldbetakenintoaccount,particularlywithregard tothewater The experienceofallpaddlers,whetherassoloistormembersa Experience –seepage28and43forfurtherguidence a group outonthetidalThames Leaders musthavetherequired qualificationorexperiencetotake accompanied byleaderswhoare familiarwith thetidalThames For inexperiencedpaddlersconsiderusingstabledoublekayaks knowledge andexperienceforthepotentiallydemandingconditions be treated as‘exposedwater’andpaddlersusingitrequire suitable inexperienced paddlersinunstableboats.ThetidalThamesshould Trips through CentralLondonshould notbeundertakenby Long distancetripsmaynotbesuitableforinexperiencedpaddlers . CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT

volumes –seepages 60–65 nature oftheriverand traffic are oftenneededduetothe where earlyjudgementcalls especially inCentralLondon Rowing CodeArea and This isimportantintheUpper that ismade. able tocopewiththechoice that allgroup membersare assessment. Theymustensure carrying outaDynamicrisk and theircompetencewhen into accounttheconditions leaders mustalwaystake Individuals andgroup marked withthissymbol. assessment andis as aDynamicrisk throughout thiscode This isdescribed changing conditions. busy nature oftheriverand option orline,duetothe regarding choosingthesafest to makecriticaldecisions afloat thatyouwillhave trip, there willbetimeswhen However wellyouplanyour Dynamic riskassessment 11 AFLOAT GO YOU BEFORE 12 EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING Don’t runoutofluck should beproperlyfitted,wellmaintainedandtestedperiodically. Bothtypes inwatersports. and bouyancyaidsforparticipating one whenafloat.Lifejacketsarerecommendedfullyclothed They‘re calledLifejacketsforareason:alwaysconsiderwearing CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT contact themanufacturer oran approved retailer forfurtheradvice . If youare unsure aboutanyaspectof aPFD,donotgoafloat with itand • • Maintenance • • Storage • • • • Fitting Having awhistleattachedisalsorecommended . have anEN/ISOnumberandberatedtosupportthesizeofpersonwearingit. The mostsuitabletypeofPFDforpaddlesportsisabuoyancyaid.Itshould while afloatonthetidalThames. All paddlersshouldwearaPersonalFloatationDevice(PFD)atalltimes Personal FloatationDevices(PFD) manufacturer foradvice or, ifnecessary, replacement coming undone,broken buckles,ties orzips,takeitbacktotheretailer or Check yourPFDonaregular basis, ifyounoticeanyripsorstitching Don’t washyour PFDinawashingmachineordrytumbledryer When dry, store thegarmentinacooldryplaceideallyoutofdirect sunlight dry naturally After usealwaysrinseyourPFDincleanwater, hangitupandallowto above thewater The PFDshouldallowyoutoswimeasilyinwaterand keepyourhead goingafloat properly adjustedbefore thattheyare Loose-fitting PFDsmaycomeoffinanemergencyso ensure freely andallowyoutobendatthewaist The fittingshouldbeasnugbutnottight.Itletyoumoveyourarms It shouldbeeasytoputon,takeoff andadjust done-up atalltimeswhileafloat on topofallotherclothingandmustremainThe PFDshouldbeworn

with sideandshoulderadjustment Over-the-head stylebuoyancyaid activities/Documents/13-618-LeisLifejacketLeaflet-LR.pdf is alsoavailable fromtheRNLI:www.rnli.org/safety/respect-the-water/ PFDchoice, fitting,storageandmaintenance regarding Further information even afullyinflatinglifejacket ifnecessary Weak ornon-swimmersshouldconsider ahigherratedPFDorpossibly these ifyouare already inthewater on thetidalThamesasitwould beverydifficulttodonandoperateoneof Therefore, pouchor‘bum-bag’ stylePFDsare strongly discouraged foruse do theirjob). are ‘inherently buoyant’(i.eyoudon’t needtoinflatethemfor The mainbenefitofbuoyancyaidsoverothertypes of PFDisthatthey be takenintoaccountwhenchoosingthemostsuitable PFDforatrip. Conditions onthetidalThamescanvaryconsiderably andshouldalways Conditions Place holder . dark orinpoorviability Hi-vis buoyancyaidforuseinthe CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Place holder .

Boat Buoyancy be carriedout. assessment process should non-tidal, acareful risk river ismore benignand Richmond Lock,where the PFD whenpaddlingabove an adequatesubstitutefor a determines thattheirboat is If acluboranindividual swamped. they remain afloatevenif buoyancy bagstoensure with additional,suitable and dragonboatsare fitted open boatssuchascanoes It ishighlyrecommended that hatches are correctly done-up. their decks–butonlyifany and outriggercanoesdueto buoyant, asare mostkayaks Paddleboards are inherently buoyant. situation –butonlyifitisitself you afloatinanemergency is alsoausefulaidinkeeping In additiontoaPFD,yourboat 13 CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING Additional kit for Personal clothing and equipment Boat choice – is your boat suitable for the conditions? Paddlers must be aware that the tidal Thames is Group Leaders • You must ensure that you are wearing suitable clothing for the (forecast) Considerations categorised by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency as Additional equipment that conditions . A combination of water/wind proof outer items and Freeboard: is the amount of hull above the waterline . follows: should be worn or carried by lightweight man-made fibre sports clothing with thermal quick-drying All small man-powered boats have minimal freeboard in comparison to group leaders (and assistants): properties are most suitable motor vessels and this very much affects their ability to cope with rough • Above Gravesend Category C waters, expect • Personal VHF radio set* • Wind, rain and cold temperatures will require additional layers or water . Sufficient freeboard is a vital consideration on the tidal Thames as wash and draw-off from motor vessels can be difficult to handle if the wash waves of up to 1.2 metres • Mobile Phone (in a buoyant, possibly wetsuits . Perhaps even drysuits in the winter months in height waterproof case) is coming from the side or unexpectedly from behind . Certain weather • Peaked hats and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather conditions can also cause very rough water . • Below Gravesend • Whistle • Suitable water sports shoes/boots are very important as you may need Decking: is the boat is ‘open’ or ‘closed’? Category D waters, expect • Spare Paddle waves of over 2.0 metres to walk on an uneven riverbed or bank with the risk of sharp objects . The integral decks on a closed boat allow water to pass over the boat • Throw line / spare line in height Going barefoot is not recommended on the Tideway without taking any on board (swamping) - especially if spray decks are • Tow line fitted . Open boats are more susceptible to swamping . • It is strongly recommended that paddlers wear bright-coloured or hi-vis • Knife clothing to improve their visibility to other vessels . This is particularly Buoyancy: affects a boat’s ability to remain afloat even when swamped . EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING • Torch / SOS light important in low light conditions or darkness Most modern paddled boats have inherent or built-in buoyancy but some, • Laminated map especially open canoes and dragon boats, may require buoyancy to be • First Aid kit (+ qualification) Other items that paddlers may want to consider wearing or carrying, retro-fitted . depending on the conditions: • Spare / emergency clothing Conclusions (and / or foil vests) l l Whistle (ideally attached to your buoyancy aid) Paddle leash Open boats (canoes or dragon boats) and very narrow racing-style boats *NOTE: SUPs must carry VHF l Mobile phone (in a buoyant, waterproof case) l Pump are not well suited to rough water or big waves . Neither are SUPs, due to below Putney Bridge and it is l Spare clothes (in a dry bag) l Gloves their almost non-existent freeboard . strongly recommended for all l Drinking water l Snacks l Suncream Recommendations paddlers for keeping a listening Some folk have a real amplitude problem watch on commercial vessel Conditions are often demanding below Putney and only the more If paddling after dark your boat must be appropriately lit and you should Rowing boats, canoes and paddle boards have very little free board experienced paddlers should venture below this point using a suitable and are extremely vulnerable to wash. Please be considerate when activity – see page 46 for more amongst smaller vessels, especially when going against the tide. wear appropriate clothing – see pages 21–23 for details . kayak or canoe . It is strongly recommended that dragon boats, SUPs details about VHF. www.pla.co.uk If choosing to paddle alone, ensure you are suitably equipped – see and particularly inflatable boats remain above Putney Bridge where water www.boatingonthethames.co.uk page 28 for details . conditions are less demanding . 14 15 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 16 EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING most suitablefortheseconditions. kayaks, withenclosedcockpitsandspraydecks,are London cangetveryrough soseaandtouringclass Certain partsofthetidalThamessuchasCentral an opentopdesign. have encloseddeckswhereas thesit-on-top-kayakis paddle .Thetraditionaltypeofkayaksasillustrated forward, legsinfront andusesadouble-ended arrangement where thepaddler(s)isseatedfacing Kayaks canhaveasingleordouble-seat Kayaks 1 Touring canoe Touring kayak CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT • • • 2 1 2 C2 racing canoe K1 racing kayak for theTidewaybelowPutney Inflatable kayaksare notconsidered tobesuitable more suitableforthesefastboats tide ismuchlessofafactorandthewater custom andpracticeaboveRichmond,where the Paddling racingkayaks(suchasK1andK2)isa placing noviceswithmore experiencedpaddlers are more stableanddoublesare idealforinitially and experienceofthepaddler Choose asuitabletypeofkayakfortheconditions .Long,widehulls Place holder integrally built-intothedesign. with buoyancy(usuallyairbags)ifitisnotalready It isrecommended thatallopenboatsare retro-fitted conditions compared withracingcanoes. wider beamsoare bettersuitedforuseinTideway Open /touringcanoeshaveahigherfreeboard and specifically describedas“Canadiancanoes”. travel usingasingle-bladedpaddle.Sometimesmore seated orkneelingpaddlersfacingthedirection of ends andopenontop,propelled byoneormore Lightweight narrow boats,typicallypointedatboth Canoes 1 Touring canoe CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT • • • 2 1 2 C2 racing kayak for theTidewaybelowPutney Inflatable canoesare notconsidered tobesuitable more suitableforthesefastboats tide ismuchlessofafactorandthewater custom andpracticeaboveRichmond,where the Paddling racingcanoes(suchasC1andC2)isa with more experiencedpaddlers more stableandnovicesshouldinitiallybeplaced and experienceofthepaddler Choose asuitabletypeofcanoefortheconditions .Long,widehullsare

Place holder 17 CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT 18 EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING more stableandrecommended forTidewayuse. (particularly thewind).Long,wideboards are slightly than regular boards towaterandweatherconditions freeboard .Inflatableboards are evenmore susceptible SUPs are comparativelyunstablecraftandhaveno through thewater boards and usealongpaddletopropel themselves paddleboarders maintainanuprightstanceontheir and anSUPisessentiallyasurfboard whereby Stand-up paddleboarding isanoffshoot ofsurfing Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) SUPs at Kewbridge . CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Place holder • • to theirexperienceandotherfactors–seepage43 which partsoftheTidewaySUPsmayuseaccording Putney andthere are strictconditionsregarding SUPs are bestsuitedtothecalmerwatersfoundabove 2 1 Place holder Waist recommended leashes are use abuoyancyaid On thetidalThamesallstand-uppaddlersmust should beavoided prove difficultto reach instrong-flowing waterand release waistleash.Ankleorkneeleashesmay If choosingtowearaleashitshouldbequick- 2 1

and bailersare recommended atalltimes. skirts are recommended forOC6sincentralLondon Thames are considerablycalmerthantheocean,spray considered tobeopenboats.Thoughthewatersof generally haveadeckfore andaftbutare otherwise person (OC1)to14msix(OC6).Outriggers stabiliser orama.Boatsvaryinsizefrom 7msingle channels withanarrow mainhullandanoutrigger Outrigger canoesare stableboatsbuilttocross ocean as nativesportsinHawaii,NewZealandandTahiti . Outrigger Canoeing,orVa’a, hasPolynesianorigins Outrigger canoes OC6 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT waters foundabovePutney as suchtheiruseisrecommended onlyonthecalmer Dragon boatsare considered tobeopenboatsand . the stern steered by acoxswainwithpaddlewhostandsin to thebeatofaseateddrummerinbowandare abreast and drivetheboatalongwithasinglepaddle Dragon boatsare longopenboatswhere thecrew sit Dragon boats 12 crew dragonboat 12 crew

. 19 CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT BEFORE YOU GO AFLOAT Port of London Boat Identification ID Specification Paddling in the dark and poor visibility EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING Thames Byelaws 2012 - Byelaw 53 Club Boats Paddling in the dark or in poor visibility is obviously much more hazardous After dark it is essential to VESSEL Boats that belong to a club or commercial than in bright daylight so requires additional equipment and different ensure that someone knows IDENTIFICATION provider must display a five-character 16CKC clothing – as well as more thorough planning and risk assessment . you are afloat. AND MARKING identification marking: a two digit unique • Cap height: 40mm minimum Use of retro-reflective SOLAS tape (as shown below) is very effective and All paddlers must inform A vessel to which number followed by the club’s ID . To • Typeface: Ariel, Hevetica or can be combined with your boat ID (see left) . However, by law you must London VTS if they are out in this byelaw applies register an ID please contact the PLA . similar ‘sans serif’ style font also correctly light your boat in darkness and reduced visibility . More must exhibit its name the dark below Putney Bridge, • Colour: any colour but must details about how this should be achieved can be found overleaf . painted in letters Personal Boats either by phone or VHF radio. contrast with the hull colour (or numbers) of a Non-club boats owned by individuals are In the dark it is always preferable to paddle in a group as it can be more and be easily legible from 30m SUPs may not paddle after length not less than not required to display an identification easily seen (see below) . Paddlers should try as much as possible to wear in daylight . A recommended dark below Chelsea Bridge. 0.1 metres and of marking associated with a club but are high visibility clothing (white or bright colours) with reflective trim . option is to place the ID on proportionate breadth strongly encouraged to do so for the retro-reflective SOLAS tape, to one each side of and reasons below . If this is impractical, or increase visibility of both the boat in a colour contrasting you are not associated with a club, we Hi-vis (or white) clothing is Retro-reflective tape and a large

EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING and the ID itself with that of the hull strongly advise having contact information recommended in the dark group vastly increase visibility • Position: in a prominent place on or superstructure, displayed on the kayak, such as the ID both sides of the boat, ideally on provided that, if the sticker contained in the RNLI’s Kayaking the most vertical surface possible vessel is of less than Safety Pack 20 metres in length and above the waterline – see below compliance with the These ID markings allow boats to be more foregoing requirements easily identified either in an emergency is impracticable, or to be returned to the owner if the boat the name or number is found unattended . Also, if more than must be otherwise one group is out on the river, particularly exhibited in one or in central London, using the boat’s ID as Needle in a haystack more positions as a call sign assists vessels to distinguish Rowing boats, canoes and paddle boards are small and easily camouflaged on a busy river. Make sure that you are visible by prominently and clearly between the groups and in making contact wearing bright kit and by showing lights in low visibility www.pla.co.uk as practicable. via VHF . Identifying a specific group can www.boatingonthethames.co.uk Place holder also help with incident investigation . 20 21 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT BEFOREEQUIPMENT YOU & GO CLOTHING AFLOAT 23 BACK FRONT Stand-up paddleboards Constant white lights both visible through 180° both visible through Constant white lights Reflective tape on paddles and kit clothing clothing or hi-vis White used as additional lighting Head torches or LED sticks Head torches CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION Kayaks & Canoes STERN BOWS Kayaks & Canoes Constant white lights both visible through 180° both visible through Constant white lights From above From From the side kayaks . When paddling as a group, all boats in the a group, . When paddling as . . If in doubt, use lights it is recommended that lights be fixed to the that it is recommended the water, and canoes low to the paddler chest and back of to have a single set of lights to lights . It is not sufficient must carry group . cover the whole group lights not safe . Spare not permitted as they are lights are Unidirectional can be used should also be carried . Additional lights such as head torches but can also ‘dazzle’ other vessels of your presence, to warn approaching river users if used inconsiderately light firmly fixed to the bows and to the a constant white light firmly fixed Lighting must be 800m stern be visible for approximately of the boat . Each light should have white lighting visible 180° The boat should effectively and through 360° . through so as not to impair the and also diffused, Lights should be waterproof or or other river users . On SUPs your group vision of anyone in high visibility as is recommended are LED sticks, attached to the paddler, tape on clothing and paddles (see photo on clothing and reflective be used . lights should never page) . Red or other coloured previous on the required white light is a flashing NOTE: In the Rowing Code Areas of travel . It is not boats to help determine their direction bows of rowing paddled boats . and should not be used by, by, required Lighting your boat your Lighting and reduced darkness boat in your light correctly must you By law, visibility displayed at lights must be as possible, so need to be as visible Paddlers at night rain or snow and such as mist, fog, visibility of restricted all times if paddle, even out for an evening going early morningor in the . If you are with you as daylight should take lights in daylight, you to return you intend can fade very quickly CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION

exhibit the lights prescribed lights prescribed exhibit the for sailing in this Rule but if she does not, vessels, at hand have ready she shall lighted or an electric torch lantern light showing a white in which shall be exhibited prevent sufficient time to collision. For the purposes of this rule paddled boats are also considered to be ‘under oars’. Col Reg Rule 20 Application (Lights and Shapes) by these The lights prescribed rules shall, if carried, also sunrise to be exhibited from visibility sunset in restricted and may be exhibited in all when it other circumstances is deemed necessary. Col Reg Rule 25 25 Rule Reg Col underway vessels Sailing oars under vessels and may under oars d (ii) - A vessel EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT 22 24 BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION green lightontheir to describenavigation. are theconventionsused light ontheir display a[forward facing]red In thedark,motorvesselswill travel oftheboat side –inthedirection of Starboard istheright-hand the boat – inthedirection oftravel Port istheleft-handside Port and seaway,international Teddington lockisan Because theriverbelow Starboard Port and side. Starboard Port side anda Starboard

CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT your outing plan,which shouldbe guidedbythe club’s procedures . recommended accessandegress pointsshould alwaysbeincludedin only beused to exitinanemergency orwithpermission.Locationof very fewbelow points .There are afairnumberofdrawdocksabove PutneyBridgebut there islittleornoforeshore exposedandinplaces there are fewegress Getting off therivertwohourseither sideofhightidecanbedifficult,as • • • • • • • Direction sectionsofthiscode–from page50 Authority on theRecreational UsersGuideorchartsproduced bythePortofLondon found ontheinteractivemapatwww.boatingonthethames.co.uk aswell water around thesearea whichcanbeutilised.Accesspoints boat orontoaboard .There are ofteneddiesorsheltered areas ofslack slipway orforeshore/beach astheseprovide afirmerfootingtogetinto River accessforpaddledboatsisconsidered safestfrom adrawdock, Accessing theriver already afloattoaccompany/manage them When gettingnovicesafloat,makesure there are experiencedpaddlers aware ofwash Lookout forothertrafficbefore enteringthemainflowofriverandbe obstructions downstream ofthelaunchsite Know whichwaythetidalstream isflowingandensure there are no Be aware oftheslippinghazard especiallyonstepsorramps SUP shouldremain onkneesuntilcomfortable/inasafearea first,withcaution – itmaybebesttoentertheriverstern Take care nottodamageanyruddersorskegstheboatmayhave Avoid obstructingthetowpathwithboatswaitingtogoafloat .Principaldrawdocksare alsonotedonthediagramsin .Pontoonsand piersare privatelyowned andshould feature ofsafenavigation. Keeping aproper lookoutisthesinglemostessential Lookout signals –page34–35andVHF – page46. be employed.Thisincludeslookoutbyhearing, consideringbothsound navigating inthevicinityof bridges,amore proactive lookout should Always wheninheavytraffic, poorvisibility, ofthetideor attheturn can causeirregular . wavepatterns This includesbeingaware ofwashfrom behindorreflected off wallswhich at therear ofthegroup whosespecific role itistokeepalookoutbehind. intervals andisrecommended thatgroups havetwoexperiencedpaddlers It istherefore essentialthatpaddlerscheckbehindthematregular . shouting awarning from theirdirection oftravel.Rowersmaymaketheirpresence knownby much smallerandquieterveryoftenthesteersperson isfacingaway .Rowingboatshoweveraremay evengiveasoundsignalontheirhorn be approaching from behind.Motorvesselscanbeeasilyheard and hazards buttheymustalsobeveryaware ofquickervesselsthatmay Paddlers faceinthedirection oftravelsocaneasilyseeoncoming risk isaslikelytocomefrom behindthemasfrom infront . collisions andnear-misses .Forpaddlersitmaybethatthebiggest Failure to keepaproper lookoutisthesinglebiggestfactorin

CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT

of collision. of thesituationandrisk so astomakeafullappraisal circumstances andconditions appropriate intheprevailing well asbyallavailablemeans sight aswellbyhearing maintain aproper lookoutby Every vesselshallatalltimes Lookout Col RegRule5 25 NAVIGATION OF PRINCIPLES BASIC 26 BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION sailing boatiscrossing thefairway). Paddled boats mustalsogivewaytosailing boats(unlessthe V Passenger vessels, tugsandtows largeDutchbarges. also givepriority tovesselssuchas(but notlimitedto)Class keep outofthewayall the typesofvesselslisted.Theymust paddled boatsmustact aspower-driven vesselsandmust For thepurposesofByelaw 27andColRegRules918, (b) avesselengagedintowing. (a) avesselof40metres (20m) 27.1 (&27.2)Avesselofless Westminster Bridge of Tower Bridge)andabove Garden Pierisdownstream GardenCherry Pier(Cherry Vessels navigatingabove Byelaws 2012-Byelaw27 Port ofLondonThames or more inlength;or passage of: Pier mustnotimpedethe above CherryGarden a sailingvesselnavigating Westminster Bridge),and length navigatingabove Garden Pier(or20min navigating aboveCherry than 40metres inlength CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 18 (d)Anyvesselotherthana Vessels Responsibilities Between Col RegRule18 practicable. starboard sideasissafeand or Fairwaywhichliestoher to theouterlimitofchannel or Fairwayshallkeepasnear the courseofanarrow channel (a) Avesselproceeding along Narrow Channels Col RegRule9 constrained byherdraught the safepassageofavessel case admit,avoidimpeding if thecircumstances ofthe ability tomanoeuvre shall, or avesselrestricted inher vessel notundercommand pages 36–39. canbefoundon navigation pattern More detailsabout thisalternative Work theSlacksagainsttide . powered boatsare allowedto the Tideway, where smallman- from ColRegsintwosectionsof NOTE: Thenavigationrulesdiffer from them. are andpositionyourselfwellaway where themainrivertrafficflows the riverasperColRegs.Observe navigate onthestarboard sideof that youkeepagoodlookoutand All alongthetidalThames,itisvital so astopassport-to-port. the starboard sideofanychannel that allvesselsshouldnavigateto Col RegRule9aessentiallystates for Preventing CollisionsatSea. Regulations The International rules thatapplyare ColRegs: seaway,international thenavigation Because thetidalThamesisan Col Regs your intentionsclearly tide .You shouldalwaysensure thatatsuchtimesyougivewayandshow boats canappeartobeinthe“wrong” placeontheriver, especiallyatlow NOTE: InanumberofplacestheFairwayisnotincentre andlarge are abletousetheshallowwateroutside Fairway and practicable.Thatisbecausepaddledboatshaveminimaldraught and Fairway Inshore Zone (IZ).Paddlersare encouragedtonavigateoutsideofthe The lanesbetweentheFairwayandbanksare referred toasthe the centre oftheriver, intheFairway vessels havemore draught(hullunderthewater)sowillusuallybenear It isadeeperchannelforlarger boatsandisnotgenerallymarked.Large The centre laneisthemainnavigationchannelandcalledFairway whether thewaterlevelishighorlow The rivercanberoughly dividedintothree laneswhichremain inplace Positioning ontheriver , intheInshore Zoneandasclosetothestarboard bankasissafe . . . CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT . .

larger vessels. manoeuvrable thanmost are alsogenerallymuchmore relatively slow, paddledboats manoeuvre andalthough restricted intheirabilityto because thesevesselsare in theFairway. Thatis way tolargermotorvessels Paddled boatsmustgive have rightofway. All vesselsintheFairway 27 NAVIGATION OF PRINCIPLES BASIC CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION Solo paddling Group management Crossing the river Port of London Thames Paddling alone inherently Byelaws 2012 – Byelaw 24 carries more risk than when Paddling in groups is safer than paddling alone since groups of very small At some time paddlers will have to cross the Fairway in order to commence Modifications of the paddling in a group which boats are much easier for other vessels to spot . However, it is important their return journey . That can be the most hazardous part of the outing . International Regulations can rely on safety in numbers that groups stay close together and are of a size and formation that does Please consider the following in order to effect a safe crossing: for Preventing Collisions at both in terms of being seen by not baulk or otherwise impede the safe navigation of other, usually faster • Cross where you can see other vessels and you can be seen by them Sea (Col Regs) - Crossing other vessels and by having river users . Thames Byelaw 15 does not, in fact, allow boats to preceed Make your intentions and your crossing obvious to other river users (a) a vessel must not cross assistance on hand to cope abreast (side-by-side) but it is accepted that paddled boats are an • You may not cross unless the Fairway is clear and never in front of or enter a fairway so as to with a problem. exception as their visibility to other vessels is improved as a group . oncoming traffic or close to a bridge – also see page 33 obstruct another vessel This formation also allows for easier communication within the group . proceeding along the Solo paddling should only • Any boats in the Fairway have right of way so be prepared to have be undertaken by paddlers fairway. • Group paddling does not give paddlers carte blanche to spread out to wait until the Fairway has cleared experienced in Tideway across the river and groups must always consider the amount of space • Groups should not cross the Fairway strung-out in single file navigation and conditions. Port of London Thames they take up . The group leader must take responsibility for maintaining • Groups should cross the Fairway in close formation Soloists are very strongly a suitable group size and shape in any given situation Byelaws 2012 - Byelaw 15 advised to carry at least one • Crossing must take place as quickly as is safely possible and by the Modifications of the method of communication and • As well as the leader, groups should ideally have two experienced shortest possible route International Rules to make sure someone knows paddlers at the rear whose specific role it is to keep a lookout behind • Be aware of the effect of the tidal stream which will push you sideways (c) a power-driven vessel they are afloat and what their and inform, direct or control the group as necessary • Keep a good lookout must not proceed abreast intended plan is, including of another power-driven anticipated return time. That vessel except for the information could be left with purposes of overtaking London VTS, another club that other vessel. BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION member or a friend. Every effort should be made For the purposes of this rule to be as visible as possible to paddled boats must act as other river users by means of power driven vessels. hi-vis clothing or lights where necessary. Solo paddling in the dark is not recommended. 28 29 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Col Reg Rule 14 Avoiding collisions Overtaking General Directions for BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION Head-on situation Navigation in the Port of London 2011 (as amended) (a) When two power driven Because of the relatively slow speed of paddled boats the most likely It is unlikely that most paddled boats will be sufficiently fast enough to vessels are meeting danger of collision is, in fact, from faster vessels approaching from behind . overtake other vessels but they may have to go around stationary boats Direction 24 on reciprocal or nearly It is recommended that groups have two experienced paddlers at the rear or other, slower paddled boats . Please observe these overtaking rules: Overtaking Manoeuvres reciprocal courses so as of the group whose specific role it is to keep a lookout behind . • The overtaking crew does not have right of way . If it is not clear to (1) Overtaking manoeuvrings shall only be undertaken so to involve risk of collision Motor vessels may use a sound signal to communicate their presence overtake then you must wait that the vessels involved each shall alter her course or intentions and rowing boats may shout a warning – see page 34 . • Overtaking should not take place if it puts the overtaking boat into to starboard so that each the path of oncoming traffic, either: do not prejudice their shall pass on the port side 1• When approached from behind, paddlers should preferably steer to ability to navigate safely, of the other. starboard and thus leave the passage clear for the faster moving vessel 1 Any vessels in the Fairway particularly in areas of (c) When a vessel is in any additional constraint such • In a head-on situation you should also preferably steer to starboard . 2 Rowing boats in the Inshore Zone – see pages 37–39 doubt as to whether such 2 as river bends and bridges. That means that ideally both vessels should pass port-to-port a situation exists she shall • Overtaking should, in general, be on the outside (in the faster tidal stream) Col Reg Rule 13 assume that it does exist In extreme situations any action should be taken to avoid a collision • Any boat(s) being overtaken should maintain course and speed, Overtaking and act accordingly. even if it breaks all the rules . Boats should always then return immediately baulking the passage of an overtaking vessel is not permitted (a) any vessel overtaking and safely to the correct station before continuing . • Do not overtake under bridges any other shall keep out For the purposes of this of the way of the vessel regulation, paddled boats being overtaken. must act as power-driven vessels. Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012 - Byelaw 15 BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION Notwithstanding the above 2 Modifications of the points and other advice on 1 1 International Rules this page, all vessels have (d) a vessel in a fairway a duty of care to avoid a above Tilburyness must collision (Col Reg, Rule 2). not overtake a vessel 2 which is itself overtaking another vessel. 30 31 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION 33 2 This is mostly . This is mostly 1 3 . paddlers are advised to advised are paddlers possible Whenever a pier behind (or under) navigate and work boats the passenger vessels to avoid the pier the outside of using that are to advised are possible paddlers Whenever ) any moorings Zone inside (Inshore navigate on the edge of the fairway positioned which are of the dangers of be aware Paddlers must also any man-made obstructions being pushed onto the . Once trapped on by the tidal stream obstruction, it can be side of a fixed upstream is the and there to get free almost impossible of pushed under by the force risk of being real the water 5 4 • • • 5 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION 4 Piers, buoys and moorings and moorings buoys Piers, Similar dangers [to bridges] are also presented by piers, by piers, presented also are [to bridges] dangers Similar the vessels manoeuvring moorings – and buoys and same should apply the . Paddlers them around obstacles in to all other large for bridges precautions many! are – of which there the river when good lookout an especially Always keep bridges, piers, buoys and navigating around moorings . tightly spaced rather should remain of paddlers Groups is easier long line . A compact group out in a than spread . to see than a line of small boats vessels for larger advice exceptions to this general some specific are There piers and moorings . They are about navigating bridges, page 50 . – from sections detailed in the Directions Whenever possible (or as appropriate), use the arch closest to the shore use the arch (or as appropriate), Whenever possible or near a bridge (unless in an emergency) Do not stop under turn or overtake under or near a bridge Do not cross, under or near a bridge Do not baulk (obstruct) faster vessels the arch The Fairway is marked with two amber lights above lights or disks is marked with an inverted triangle of 3 red A closed arch a closed arch For safety no vessel should ever navigate through 3 2 Bridges Bridges Teddington between channel the main over has 29 bridges Tideway The concern of no to are and width of bridges Bridge . The height and Tower to safe navigation: hazards particular but they can present paddlers bridge obstructed by the can be very easily of small boats Visibility ability to very limited in their may often be vessels large and buttresses bridge well away from try to keep Small boatsshould always . manoeuvre . passing other vessels close to a bridge and avoid buttresses faster which flows much boats is the current for small Another hazard them and affecting drawing small boats towards buttress bridge around to look may also be shallows There their boat . ability to control paddler’s closest to the banks . particularly under the arches out for at low tide, own safety except well clear of all bridges for their Paddlers should keep bridge . when transiting a • • • • marking Arch • • • numbering Arch the north bank, starting from numbered, over the river are Bridge arches with Arch #1 (see diagram opposite) 1 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION Fairway marker

of a bridge is closed to of a bridge the person in navigation, bridge must of the control or as close to display at as practicable the centre or in or span, of that arch the with a position agreed harbourmaster: at the in diameter metres points of an equilateral triangle with the apex base and the downwards horizontal; and in similar positions to the discs displayed by day.

(a) by day, three red discs 0.6 discs red three (a) by day, lights red (b) by night, three (Any arch closure will also be announced via an NtM) Port of London Thames Thames London of Port 36 - Rule 2012 Byelaws Bridges or span the arch 36.1 When Closed arch marker BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION OF PRINCIPLES BASIC 32 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION Shouted warnings Sound signals

If you feel that a risk of collision is developing do not • Power-driven vessels, especially the larger assume that the other boat is aware of it and call out commercial (passenger) vessels are much more in good time to warn them . The conventional calls likely to use sound signals than they are to shout for rowers and paddlers are: • Emergency vessels such as the lifeboat and police • “Take a look [other boat]” will use their siren rather than shout potential risk of collision • Paddlers must be aware of the meaning of sound • “Ahead [other boat]” signals, usually given via a horn or whistle imminent risk of collision • In the Upriver Area sound signals are most likely to • “Hold it up” apply to the Class V passenger vessels, especially precautionary stop when using Kew Pier . Below Putney use of sound signals will be common amongst the busy • “Hold it hard!” commercial traffic Emergency stop • In addition to sound signals, all paddlers are All paddlers when hearing such a call in their vicinity advised to carry VHF and keep a listening watch should take a good look to ascertain whether it pertains to them or not . The most important sound signals for paddlers to remember are as follows: Calling other boats is particularly important where paddlers are sharing the river with rowers . Calling is

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION common (and indeed good practice) amongst rowers and paddlers should not be inhibited about doing the same . It is better to assume that other boats have not seen you than to leave your call until it is too late .

It is recommended that all paddlers also carry a whistle (attached to their buoyancy aid) to attract attention in an emergency and where conditions make shouting ineffective . 34 35 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT What is “Working the Slacks”? Rowing Code Areas FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION

Working the slacks is a navigation 1 Upper Rowing Code Area On the Thames Tideway there are two specific areas In both rowing code areas the Inshore Zone is only system historically developed by where the slacks are worked . Because rowing boats used when rowing against the tidal stream . When working oarsmen to use the easier make up the vast majority of recreational craft on the rowing with the tidal stream rowers are positioned ‘slack’ water when rowing against river in these areas, they are known as the Rowing on the starboard side of the Fairway as per Col Regs the tide, rather than have to force Code Areas . (Rule 9a) . Think of it as a river within a river . their boat into a strong current . • 1 Upper Rowing Code Area also applies to paddlers Only in the Upper Rowing Code Area the lanes are In general, water flows faster and is between Syon Reach and Putney Pier occasionally marked with buoys in important areas around the outside of bends (also • 2 Lower Rowing Code Area doesn’t apply to paddlers and at Crossing Zones: creating tidal sets – see page 36) and is between Cherry Garden Pier and Island Jetty • Green buoys are always on the Middlesex or north with slower or ‘slack’ water being edge of the Fairway on the inside of the bend . Within those areas, rowers should work the slacks • Red buoys are always on the Surrey or south edge Oar-powered boats have meaning that when rowing against the tidal stream they of the Fairway traditionally been allowed to break use the lanes between the Fairway and the river’s edge, with the normal navigation rules known as the Inshore Zones . When using the Inshore Outside the Rowing Code Areas, Col Regs (Rule 9a) Zone, rowers should be positioned as close to the bank starboard side navigation, applies to all vessels at all (of staying to starboard) by rowing 2 Lower Rowing Code Area in the slower moving, ‘slack’ water as safe and practicable, however high the water is . times, as described on pages 26–27 . on the inside of the bend – but only against the tide . Because the Tideway meanders so much, boats have to swap banks to stay in the slack water . They may only do this at pre-arranged

FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION FURTHER Crossing Zones. It is this practice that is known as working the slacks and it’s a bit like being allowed to ride a bike on the pavement against the flow of the traffic . 36 37 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 38 FURTHER PRINCIPLES OF NAVIGATION details. See pages67–69 formore Lower RowingCode Area. not worktheslacksin there, paddledboats different. Unlikerowingvessels Area, therulesforpaddlers are In theLowerRowingCode co.uk/Rowing www.boatingonthethames. leisure userswebsite: That isavailableonthePLA found intheRowingCode. Rowing CodeAreas canbe working theslackswithin detailed explanationabout covered here butamore The fundamentalpointsare the sameasforrowing boats. rules forpaddledboatsare the slacks.Thenavigation paddled boatsshouldwork Code Area (SyontoPutney) Because intheUpperRowing Code Areas? know abouttheRowing Why dopaddlersneedto should CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 2 • obliged tolookoutforand safely overtakepaddledboats. much theotherwayaround, withrowing boats, asthefastervessel,being When proceeding withthestream intheFairway • whole Inshore Zone. possible torowing boatsandtoavoidimpedingtheirprogress byfillingthe the paddlerstomakethemselvesasvisible(andaudible –seepage34)as as wellinfront whennavigatingwithintheInshore Zone.Theonusison It isvitaltherefore thatpaddlersalsokeepagoodlookoutbehindthem boat whenbothtypesofare workingthesameslackwater increased possibilityofarowing boatcollidingintothebackofapaddled The consequenceofthatsituationisveryobvious–there isan • • • Zone toworktheslacks: specific issuesthatarisewhere paddlersand rowers usethesameInshore asrowingsame navigationpattern boatssoitisvitaltounderstandthe Only intheUpperRowingCodeArea , paddledboatsshouldusethe Paddled boatsworkingtheslacks 1 starboard sideof theFairway nor intotheInshore Zonebutpaddleas acompactgroup onthe However, paddledboatsmust notspread outacross thewhole Fairway unhindered ontheoutside. as closetothebankis safe thusallowingrowing boatstopassthem Areas –Paddlersshouldbenomore thantwoabreast andshouldstay The ruleonpaddlingingroups isdifferent withintheRowingCode Rowers havetheirbackstodirection of travel Paddlers faceintheirdirection oftravel Paddled boatsare usuallyslowerthanrowing boats , asdescribed onpage28 . , theresponsibility isvery . • • 2 1 Paddlers proceeding withthetideonstarboard side oftheFairway,as perColRegs Paddlers workingtheslacksagainsttideinInshore Zone

CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 39 NAVIGATION OF PRINCIPLES FURTHER CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES Port of London Act 1968 (as Personal responsibility Responsibilities of clubs, organisations Commercial Paddling amended) - Section 108 and paddlesport providers General rules for Risk Assessment Any club, individual or navigation company which offers paid Every paddler is responsible for checking the equipment that they are Clubs, organisations and paddlesport providers should have measures A master who navigates his ‘tour guide’ style trips on about to go afloat in and also for assessing the environmental conditions in place for: vessel on the Thames the tidal Thames requires plus their own ability and experience . • Generic risk assessments permission from the (a) without due care and They should understand the basics of this Code of Practice and be familiar • Standard operating procedures including identifying usable egress points PLA Harbourmaster. attention; or with rules, regulations and emergency procedures set out by their club . • Up-to-date Health and Safety policies Detailed Passage Plans (b) in a manner liable to injure They should be able to swim and wear a suitable PFD . • Appointed coaches/group leaders and Risk Assessments are or endanger persons, other • Appointed Safety Officer required for operations such vessels, the banks of the The Vessel Master as this and these need to Thames (whether above • Other conditions required for affiliation to a national governing body In the context of PLA regulations, the steers person (‘steers’ for paddled be approved by the PLA. or below mean high water (e .g . British Canoeing) or if operating as a commercial provider . Kayaks, canoes and stand-up level) or any structure or boats with more than one person), is deemed to be the master of the Experience paddleboards used installation in or beside the vessel - see panel left . Associate clubs, organisations or providers should consider producing for commercial trips must also Thames; As such, the steers is legally responsible for the navigation, safety and their own guidelines based on British Canoeing Coaching and Personal be licensed by the PLA. behaviour of the crew . ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES shall be guilty of an offence Performance (Leadership and Star) Awards . These guidelines should take A leader of any such and liable to a fine not into account the level of competence required of paddlers and group commercial outfit is required exceeding [the statutory Group leaders’ responsibility leaders, as well what part of the river is being used and the expected to hold a Thames Local maximum and on conviction conditions . Clubs not associated with British Canoeing are recommended As mentioned in other parts of this code, it’s advisable to paddle in groups, Knowledge Endorsement on indictment to a fine]. to be guided by the principles within these awards . which should appoint a person to ‘take charge’ to take an active role to (LKE) when operating maintain the size, shape, position and route of the group in line with the Information distribution between Putney and Margaretness. The statutory maximum fine guidance in this code . Clubs are also responsible for informing members (i .e . via a notice at time of publication (2016) Whilst individuals are ultimately responsible for themselves, leaders are put board, website or social media) of any information relevant to safety and More details on the LKE is £5,000 into a position of trust by the other group members, so they have a duty of navigation on the Tidal Thames . This information could be any or all of the can be found on the PLA care to ensure their experience and ‘local knowledge’ are sufficient to be following issued by the PLA or British Canoeing: website or by contacting the Harbourmaster – see page 70 able to make the right decisions and dynamically risk assess the trip . l This Code of Practice l Notices to Mariners (NtMs) for contact details. It is also recommended that group leaders hold a First Aid qualification . l Safety Bulletins l Fluvial Flag warnings 40 41 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 42 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES AND OTHERRIVEREVENTS BOAT RACES, REGATTAS, PROCESSIONS Port ofLondonThamesByelaws2012-Byelaw9 9.4 Anypersonwhoproposes toorganise 9.3 Everypersonnavigatingavesselinor 9.2 Anypersonwhoproposes toorganise[anevent] 9.1 Apersonmustnotorganiseorpromote [aboat low as reasonably practicable. safety orboth ismitigatedandmaintained as to ensure anyriskto personsornavigational other riskcontrol measures tobeimplemented and anysuitableprocedures, precautions and assessment mustidentify therelevant hazards in respect oftheeventinquestion. Therisk a result oftheconsultation underbyelaw9.2 comprehensive riskassessment requested as the harbourmasterfindingsofany or promote [anevent]mustprovide to the instructionsofaharbourmasterrelating toit. connection withsuchaneventmustcomply the proposed event. the harbourmasteratleastfourweeks’noticeof issues arisingfrom theproposed eventandgive harbourmaster onthenavigationalandsafety on orovertheThames,mustconsultwith the harbourmaster. or overtheThamesexceptwithconsentof firework display, airraceorother riverevent]on race, regatta, stunt,procession, exhibition, CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT litter –seepage 45. considered particularly withregards todealingwith The environmental impact ofaneventmustalso be event hasfinished. the eventisabouttostart and againoncethe Event organisers shouldinformLondonVTSthat • • • • The organisermustprovide: closure, whichrequires atleastonemonth’s notice. deems itnecessary, mustnormallyhaveafullriver the wateratanyonetime,orifHarbourmaster Any eventthatinvolvesmore than99boatson at leastfourweeksbeforehand . Harbourmaster asfarinadvancepossibleand interest . Theeventorganiser mustadvisethe paddlers, races,stuntsoranythingwithmedia This includesmasspaddlesof(typically)30-40 other thannormaltrainingorrecreational purposes. An ‘event’is classed as use ofthe river foranything Events’ responsibilities working forhire orreward Details ofanyboatsinvolved intheevent claims arisingasaresult oftheevent indemnity forthePLAagainstanycostsor A signedStandard EventLettercontainingan A riskassessmentandeventplan Proof ofpublicliabilityinsurance Some Qualifications, experienceand restrictions before going afloat–seepages2–3. All paddlersonthetidalThamesshouldhaveathorough knowledgeofthisPaddlingCodePractice All commercial paddlesport leadersmust haveaLKE to operateonthe Tideway –seepage 41 TSK (pages xx–xx) Below Putney (pages xx–xx) Above Putney 11.00 –18.00 (pages xx–xx) carry VHF SUP mustcarry (at LondonBridge) and 1hourafterhighwater No SUP3hoursbefore (SeeDirectionsareas pages) Restrictions applyincertain Friday andSeptember30 No SUPbetweenGood (pages xx–xx) Below ChelseaBridge Below Tower Bridge 2 – Thames Skills and Knowledge endorsement. Contact the PLA Harbourmaster (Upper) fordetailsoncourses –ThamesSkills and Knowledgeendorsement.Contact thePLAHarbourmaster 1 previous occasions experiencemeans havingpaddledonthetidalThames onatleastthreeprevious

th ,

Must haveSome No TSK(minimalexperience) Recommend beginners and bepartofagroup are accompaniedbya TSK qualifiedpaddler (3 minimum),ledby Not atnightorsolo Level 2(1:4ratio) No paddling Not atnight

CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT SUP isnotpermittedbelowTower Bridge 1 experience Stand-up paddleboarding Not atnightorsolo licensed paddler As partofgroup a commercially a group, ledby Only aspartof TSK (3 minimum) At night(asmemberofagroup) Not solo 2 Level1 No restriction Solo (daytimeonly) Some As partofgroup of paddlerswith Lead agroup TSK (3 minimum) (1:4 ratio) 1 experience 2 Level2

water’ isrecommended experience* on‘exposed Previous paddling Thames isrecommended experience* onthetidal Previous paddling *Be guidedbythe ability andexperience levelsof required for determining (Leadership &Star) Awards Performance Coaching &Personal British Canoeing other paddlesports Considerations for

43 RESPONSIBILITIES & ROLES CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES Other organisations Environmental Responsibilities Pollution and Health

British Canoeing Environment Litter British Canoeing is the national All users of the river should be environmentally friendly and take care Do not drop litter in the river, or leave it where it will be taken/blown back governing body for canoeing. not to disturb the wildlife while on the water . Paddlers should also not into the river . Plastic has been found in fish of the Thames, because they It is responsible for setting the paddle towards or close by seals on the banks of the river . are eating broken-down litter mixed in the river bed with their food . overall framework for the National Bin it, for a cleaner Thames! Invasive non-native species (INNS) and bio-security Associations; representing If organising an event, where litter is likely to collect with spectators, plan canoeing interests such as Paddlers should take steps to minimise the risk or prevent the your event to minimise the litter generated and event-specific items like coaching and competition at UK movement of invasive non-native species which can be introduced flags or banners are secured . Plan to review the area following the event and international level. It also and spread by all waterway users, often unknowingly via contaminated to prevent any litter ending up in the river . formulates standards for training equipment and clothing left in damp conditions . Paddlers should programmes with certification check their gear is clean before bringing it to the Thames from other Water pollution levels and administers a range waterways to prevent INNS contamination . Please remember: If you see any pollution of the river, please report it to the relevant London of personal performance and VTS channel by phone or VHF . Take photos if possible, but do not take coaching awards. samples and keep a distance as the pollutant may also be damaging to Check your equipment and clothing for live health . After heavy or prolonged rainfall, screened sewage is released into Port of London Authority (PLA) organisms, plant fragments, etc – particularly in the river from combined sewage outfalls . Avoid paddling in or near those ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES PLA operations cover 95 miles areas that are damp or hard to inspect events as there is an increased risk to your health . of the River Thames between the Clean and wash all equipment, footwear and estuary and Teddington Lock. Noise Pollution clothing thoroughly . Soaking small items at 45°C Its role is to keep commercial and Please be considerate towards those who live on and near the river . for 15 minutes has been show to caused a 99% leisure users safe, protect and Paddlers should avoid abusive language, playing loud music or shouting mortality rate across all species . If you do find enhance the environment and during unsociable hours . any organisms, leave them at the body of water in promote the use of the river for which they were found Health trade and travel. Paddlers should always be aware of the risk of Weil’s disease which is The PLA is ultimately Dry all equipment and clothing . Some species can spread by rodents’ urine . All cuts and grazes should be covered before responsible for enforcing the live for up to 16 days in moist conditions . Ensure going afloat . If a bleeding wound occurs during an outing, wash it navigation rules of the river, you don’t transfer water anywhere thoroughly as soon as you return and treat it as an infection risk . including this Paddling Code. Always wash your hands after paddling and before eating . 44 45 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT COMMUNICATION & REPORTING 47 facility, the river embankment, a structure a structure embankment, the river facility, of a bridge or a berthed or including any part vessel or object; moored (including a vessel); taken the ground); which has intentionally to navigation; beacon or other aid sailing capsize of a to a recoverable in relation by paddles or oars; dinghy or a vessel propelled to the Marine Accident Investigation be reported Agency, Branch or the Maritime & Coastguard or both. as soon vessel master to the harbourmaster, of the as practicable after the submission by byelaw 8.1 above. required verbal report, must give the full details of The written report by the in a form prescribed the occurrence, Harbourmaster. Port of London Thames Byelaws 2012 – 2012 Byelaws Thames London of Port 8 Byelaw the Thames: whilst in has, any vessel 8.1 Where or is in danger of sinking; a) sunk abandoned; b) been derelict; c) become vessel, shore in collision with another d) been or caused damage to anything e) been damaged an explosion; or has suffered f) been or is on fire being a vessel or stranded (not g) taken the ground or damaged any light, buoy, h) run into, fouled except any person falling overboard i) suffered to any other accident normally required j) suffered must be submitted by the 8.2 A written report

. CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION . Incidents should be reported as soon as possible be reported Incidents should the RNLI is called must be Any incident where 24 hours within reported the party or requiring by a third Capsizes caused services emergency vessels Collisions – with other Contact – with stationary objects (bridges, piers, in underwater obstructions etc .) that results personal injury or shipwreck Near misses and poor or unsafe navigation Personal injury or inconsiderate behaviour Inappropriate Incident reporting Incident Non-emergency incidents Non-emergency to the reported must be on the Tideway All incidents . with British Canoeing the details may share PLA, who your club safety to should also be reported Incidents a boat or damage to if it involves officer particularly injury personal all paddlers using the tidal Thames That is the case for on the river based are whether or not they • • are: that must be reported The sorts of incidents • • • • • • Behaviour of motor vessels Any concerns or about poor / abusive behaviour as be reported navigation by motor vessels should . soon as possible to London VTS - see left . . . They work . VHF Radio Communications Communications Radio VHF left VTS, see London For channels, radio communication in constant VHF are London VTS vessels and emergency commuter with commercial, NtMs and other broadcasting regularly as well as information . pertinent and London Coastguard officers at London The duty to each other stationed next VTS are services or with the emergency closely together and any emergency via VHF, other vessels to coordinate, the river on required response in is highly recommended A personal VHF handset such as central London . areas, traffic busy commercial for keeping a listening watch on It can be invaluable critical vessels or to recieve the intentions of other VTS . London information from to listen on VHF but users do not need a licence You on VHF licence to broadcast do need the appropriate able to also are If you have such a licence then you . of your intentions make other river users aware Bridge SUPs must carry VHF below Putney Many modern option of a VHF sets also include the . DSC will send Digital Selective Calling (DSC) button your location, signal, including distress a pre-defined for small boats . and is highly recommended limited range, NOTE: Handheld VHF radios may have particularly upriver and/or at low water . They CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION

020 8855 0315 Phone: 020 8855 Phone: 01747 562215 Phone: 01747 562215

advised to inform strongly are All paddled boats into or through London VTS if they intend to paddle Central London – see pages 58–63 obliged to inform London VTS All paddled boats are the Heart of if they intend to paddle into or through London – see pages 62–65 strongly advised to inform All paddled boats are afloat in the dark London VTS when they are on the tidal Thames anywhere

• • . Control equivalent of Air Traffic the shipping are deal of information to hand a great London VTS have closures as river works, arch such things regarding so being involved in this and traffic movements beneficial . is extremely communication network • Crayfordness to Sea Reach 4 Crayfordness 68 VHF: channel Limit 4 to Seaward Sea Reach VHF: channel 69 the safety and navigation across London VTS oversee Thames, 24/7, 365 days a year whole of the tidal Teddington to Crayfordness Teddington 14 VHF: channel London VTS (Vessel Traffic Services) Traffic (Vessel VTS London COMMUNICATION & REPORTING & COMMUNICATION 46 48 COMMUNICATION & REPORTING CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT VHF: appropriate response . Phone: 999/112andaskfortheCoastguard whowillcoordinate the There are twoprimarycommunicationoptionsinanemergency: accessible (e.gonalanyard) andnottucked-awayinahatchorbag. VHF belowPutneybridge).Thisdeviceshouldbecarriedwhere itiseasily handset a It isstrongly recommended thatpaddlers,particularlygroup leaders,carry Emergencies casualty recovery There are training coursesavailablefor managingon-waterincidents and than ashout. You mayalsobeable toattractattentionby. waving whistle, ifyouhaveone,is veryeffective fordoingthis asitcarriesfurther to attractattentionfrom othervesselsnearbyorpeople ontheshore .A If youare unabletocommunicate by eitherofthesemethodsthenattempt your position. and thedirection ofthetide.Uselandmarksandbridge namestodetail In allcasesyouwillneedtoprovide detailsofyourlocationontheriver offer evenmore immediateassistance. emergency service)orothervesselsin your vicinitywhomaybeableto London VTSwilleitheralerttheCoastguard (whowilltasktheappropriate mobilephone(inabuoyant,waterproof case)orapersonalVHF Crayfordness toSeaReach4 Teddington toCrayfordness . Sea Reach4toSeaward Limit. to summonhelpinanemergency situation(SUPsmustcarry .Formore information seethe BritishCanoeing website . . channel 14 channel 69 channel 68 Make sure youare prepared forwashandgivethemspacetodo theirjobs. respond toincidentsatspeed,signifiedby sirens and/orflashingbluelights. Be aware thattheLifeboats(alsopolice,fire serviceorPLA)mayneedto • • • reported it!UseyourVHForcall999andaskfortheCoastguard if: may dependonyoutoreport anincident–don’t presume someonehasalready River usersare thebesteyesandearsonriveremergency services Lifeboats (RNLI)andotheremergencyservices to contactorlocatethem A boatorgroup issignificantlyoverdue backatyourclubandyouare unable report itbefore ithappens! You thinksomeonemightbeindangerorisabouttodosomethingsilly– You seesomeoneindifficulty

CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT 49 REPORTING & COMMUNICATION 50 UPPER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS common recreational sportinthispartoftheriver and sightseeingcruisersbutrowing isbyfarthemost recreational waterusersincludingpaddlers,sailors Because ofthat,theUpperTidewayisverybusywith recreational activities. water isgenerallycalmerandtherefore bettersuitedto less commercial trafficinthissection.Asaresult the fewer wallsandwharvesontheriver’s edgeandmuch it, withmuchmore green spaceandwildlife.There are of westLondon,itismore ‘rural’thantheriverbelow Although theUpperTidewayrunsthrough the suburbs Teddington LockandPutneyBridge. The UpperTidewayisthepartofriverbetween The UpperTideway CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT . the remainder ofthisUpperTidewayDirections Section . The different are navigationpatterns alsodescribedin www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Rowing is availableonthePLAleisure userswebsite be foundonpages36–39andthefullRowingCode Essential detailsonhowtheRowingCodeworkscan • • (seediagram right): navigation patterns On theUpperTidewaythere are two different Upper RowingCodeArea applies torowing andpaddledboatsonlyinthe The RowingCode(aka.workingtheslacks) Col RegsapplytoallvesselsaboveSyonCrossing

EPIC SUP ROAD &RAILBRIDGES

ISLEWORTH N EEL PIE ISLAND TWICKENHAM AIT LOCK &WEIR TEDDINGTON Thames YoungMariners GLOVER’S ISLAND LOCK &WEIR RICHMOND LOCK BRENTFORD BRENTFORD AITS Syon reach BRIDGE RICHMOND reach Horse SyonCrossing Syon reachbuoy Canoe Club Richmond KEW ROAD arches closesttotheshore wheneverpossible as closetothestarboard bankasissafeandusebridge Col Regsapplytoallvessels .Smallboatsshouldstay Teddington LocktoSyonCrossing BRIDGE CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Piers Kew KEW RAIL BRIDGE Active360 SUP Chelsea KyakClub EDGE CanoeClub CHISWICK BRIDGE • SUP restrictions abovePutneyBridge: where thesafestplacetobepositioned is Paddlers should employaDynamicRiskAssessment todecide and ColRegs(Rule9a)apply rowers andpaddlersmustusetheFairway When navigatingwiththetidalstream, navigating againstthetidalstream . work theslacksinInshore Zoneswhen Both rowers andpaddlersare obligedto Syon CrossingtoPutney Upper RowingCodeArea Only paddlers withaminimum ofTSK L1maypaddle atnight Dragon Boats Out riggers reach Mortlake Civil Service Canoe Club Chiswick Chiswick Pier Canoe Club Pier CHISWICK BRIDGE BARNES EYOT reach Corney reach Chiswick Putney Bridge Canoe Club Putney Crossing Dove Pier Putney Pier BRIDGE HAMMERSMITH RAIL BRIDGE reach Elms Barn FULHAM

PUTNEY BRIDGE 51 DIRECTIONS TIDEWAY UPPER DOVE PIER

HAMMERSMITH KEW ‘STONE’ F A I R D EDGE Canoe Club W AY BRIDGE BRIDGE Chelsea Kyak Club CHISWICK EYOT Kew Bridge Pontoon D Active360 SUP BRENTFORD Harbourmaster Pontoon FULLERS BREWERY AITS OLIVER’S AIT RIVERSIDE St NICHOLAS D CHURCH PARK D FAIRWAY KEW ‘RAIL’ BRIDGE Chiswick LOT’S AIT KEW Y Chiswick Pier A HARRODS PIERS W reach Canoe Club R D I BRENTFORD ‘The Petrol Pumps’ A F LOCK CHISWICK PIER Grand Union canal Outriggers & Chiswick Steps Dragon boats

Crossing F

u

l DUKE’S h a

m

‘The Barges’ F MEADOWS MILE POST

A CONSULTATION DRAFT KEW CONSULTATION Barn Elms DRAFT

FAIRWAY I Mortlake CHISWICK R

F A R I W AY UPPER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS GARDENS THE W F reach reach MARINA l A a N t Y SYON BANDSTAND s Small D BARN ELMS Teddington Lock to Syon Crossing PARK NORTH / MIDDLESEXCivil Service Proffitt’s SURREY / SOUTH Dock CRAVEN COTTAGE (FFC) Syon Reach Buoy Chiswick Canoe Bridge Club Putney Bridge Syon Crossing Corney Crossing & Battersea In this part of the river Col Regs (Rule 9a) apply to all vessels . ‘THE PINK reach BISHOP’S PARK HOUSE/LODGE’ Syon reach Canoe Clubs CHISWICK BARNES Beverley Brook Putney AY • All vessels should navigate to the starboard side of D BRIDGE F A I R W BRIDGE ‘The Black Buoy’ Crossing FULHAM D RAILWAY “THE SHIP” “YE WHITE D BRIDGE the river at all times, regardless of what the tide HART” PUTNEY D EMBANKMENT D is doing . Paddlers should aim to be as close to the ISLEWORTH AIT Arch #1 Arch #2 Arch #3 PUTNEY PIER Arch#4 Arch #5 F A I FAIRWAY R W starboard bank as is safe and practicable (Portage) (Inbound) (outbound) (closed) AY (Lock) PUTNEY D – travelling in either direction . BRIDGE RICHMOND • Paddlers may also use the water out of the main LOCK 1 channel, behind the aits and islands, particularly TWICKENHAM 1 Richmond Lock and weir, looking downriver, showing the barriers down RAIL BRIDGE 2 when travelling inbound (upriver) . This is obviously D RICHMOND TWICKENHAM BRIDGE dependant on the tide and whether there is BRIDGE Richmond Lock is a half-tide lock . For 2 hours either above the lock . If the closed arch markers are down,

sufficient water to do so . CORPORATION side of high water (earlier in drier months) arches #2 or are being lowered, paddlers must use the portage ISLAND D and #3 are normally open to navigation . under arch #1 or the lock under arch #5 . 1• Richmond Lock – see opposite page for directions Richmond 3 Canoe Club Otherwise those arches are closed due to weirs being NOTE: Be aware that the weirs are lowered without

2• Beware that in the vicinity of Richmond the river is GLOVER’S lowered into the water to maintain the water level much notice . ISLAND quite narrow and can get very busy, particularly in Horse MARBLE HILL reach the summer, with hired rowing boats and pleasure PARK D PETERSHAM 2 3 UPPER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS UPPER TIDEWAY cruisers . D D MEADOWS

EPIC SUP 3• The area around Richmond is most commonly FERRY used by racing kayaks and canoes from Richmond EEL PIE HAM HOUSE ISLAND KEY Canoe Club . During a club race or when HAM LANDS Inbound line performing a ‘Race Start’, paddlers should ensure SWAN the river is clear of transiting vessels . Be aware ISLAND Outbound line Thames of pleasure boats and consider having ‘spotters’ Young mariners D Draw dock above and below to identify approaching craft . Paddling club Sailing club TEDDINGTON LOCK & WEIR Rowing club(s) Passenger Place holder Place holder vessel stop 52 53 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT DOVE PIER CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT N UPPER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS HAMMERSMITH Syon Crossing to Chiswick Bridge Crossing KEW ‘STONE’ F A I R D EDGE Canoe Club W AY BRIDGE BRIDGE Chelsea Kyak Club CHISWICK This part of the river is within the Upper Rowing Code EYOT Kew Bridge Pontoon D Active360 SUP Area and is very busy with rowing boats . BRENTFORD Harbourmaster Pontoon FULLERS BREWERY • Both rowing boats and paddled boats must use AITS OLIVER’S AIT RIVERSIDE the Rowing Code navigation, i .e . use the Inshore St NICHOLAS D Zone to work the slacks against the tidal stream CHURCH PARK D FAIRWAY KEW ‘RAIL’ BRIDGE Chiswick LOT’S AIT KEW Y Chiswick Pier A • When using the Inshore Zone, paddlers should HARRODS PIERS 1 W reach be no more than two abreast and must lookout Canoe Club R D I BRENTFORD ‘The Petrol Pumps’ A behind for faster moving rowing boats – see F pages 38–39 LOCK 2 CHISWICK PIER • When navigating with the tidal stream, boats Grand Union canal Outriggers & Chiswick Steps Arch #3 of Kew Bridge, looking downriver at low water Dragon boats must stay to the starboard of the Fairway Crossing F

u

l DUKE’S h • Paddlers may also use the water out of the main a

Kew bridges m

channel, behind the aits and islands, particularly ‘The Barges’ F MEADOWS MILE POST

A KEW Barn Elms

Arch #3 of Kew (Stone) Bridge can get very shallow at when travelling inbound (upriver) . This is obviously FAIRWAY I Mortlake CHISWICK R

F A R I W AY low water and all boats using the Inshore Zone must dependant on the tide and whether there is GARDENS THE W F reach reach MARINA l A a t take extra care in this area at low water . Y sufficient water to do so SYON BANDSTAND s UPPER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS UPPER TIDEWAY Small D BARN ELMS Using arch #2 (centre arch) inbound against the ebb 1• The main channel is very narrow at Oliver’s Ait PARK Civil Service Proffitt’s Dock CRAVEN COTTAGE (FFC) tide is not recommended . It is hard to see boats Syon Reach Buoy 3 Chiswick Canoe coming downriver in the Fairway as they are easily • Arch #1 of Kew (Stone) Bridge is closed to Bridge Club Putney Bridge hidden by the bridge buttress and the curve in the river . navigation Syon Crossing Corney ‘THE PINK Crossing & Battersea The recommendation is to turn around if arch #3 of Kew • 2 hours either side of high water, beware of boats reach BISHOP’S PARK HOUSE/LODGE’ Syon reach Canoe Clubs Bridge is impassable . If you absolutely must use it then coming out of: do so with EXTREME CAUTION, ensuring the Fairway CHISWICK BARNES Beverley Brook 2 Putney • Brentford Lock KEY AY above the bridge is entirely clear before proceeding . D BRIDGE F A I R W BRIDGE ‘The Black Buoy’ Crossing FULHAM D The inshore arch of Kew Rail bridge also dries out but 3• Chiswick Marina Paddling against either tide Draw dock D RAILWAY “THE SHIP” “YE WHITE visibility is much better . However, boats in the Inshore Paddling with the flood tide Paddling club D BRIDGE • Be aware that Kew Pier is a scheduled stopping HART” PUTNEY Zone must always give way to those in the Fairway D Paddling with the ebb tide Sailing club EMBANKMENT D point for Passenger vessels Passenger vessel stop Rowing club(s) 54 ISLEWORTH 55 CONSULTATION DRAFT AIT CONSULTATION DRAFT PUTNEY PIER F A I FAIRWAY R W AY PUTNEY D BRIDGE RICHMOND LOCK

TWICKENHAM RAIL BRIDGE

D RICHMOND TWICKENHAM BRIDGE BRIDGE

CORPORATION ISLAND D

Richmond Canoe Club

GLOVER’S ISLAND Horse MARBLE HILL reach PARK D PETERSHAM

D D MEADOWS

EPIC SUP FERRY

EEL PIE HAM HOUSE ISLAND

HAM LANDS SWAN ISLAND Thames Young mariners

TEDDINGTON LOCK & WEIR 56 UPPER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS Chiswick BridgeCrossing toPutneyBridge 2 ISLAND SWAN EPIC SUP 1 ISLEWORTH D LANDS HAM HOUSE/LODGE’ AIT ‘THE PINK D TWICKENHAM D D EEL PIE ISLAND CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Young mariners Thames MARBLE HILL LOCK &WEIR TEDDINGTON

BRIDGE F A I R W AY PARK CORPORATION PARK SYON LOCK RICHMOND ISLAND HAM HOUSE FERRY GLOVER’S ‘The Barges’ ISLAND RAIL BRIDGE TWICKENHAM Grand Unioncanal LOCK BRENTFORD D Syon reach Area andisverybusywithrowing boats. This partoftheriveriswithinUpperRowingCode 2 1 D • • • • • • SyonCrossing LOT’S AIT D

traffic –iftheneedarises . used bypaddlers tokeepoutoftheway ofother used bylarge vesselsorrowing boats socouldbe Hammersmith andPutney (FulhamFlats)isnot The area tothenorthofFairway between paddlers tobe Fairway maybethesafestplacefor agroup of Often, stayingclosetothe riverbankoutofthe from PutneyPier boats andalsoregular passengerservicesrunning Embankment whichisextremely busywithrowing Be extracareful around themooringsatPutney paddling withtheFloodtide FChiswick moorings)bythesetoftidewhen A I R W AYBeware ofbeingpushedontoDovePier(and stay tothestarboard oftheFairway When navigatingwiththetidalstream, boatsmust behind forfastermovingrowing boats be nomore thantwoabreast andmustlookout When usingtheInshore Zone,paddlersshould to worktheslacksagainsttidalstream the RowingCodenavigation,i.euseInshore Zone Both rowing boatsandpaddledmustuse BRIDGE RICHMOND Syon ReachBuoy MEADOWS PETERSHAM D BRENTFORD reach Horse Canoe Club Richmond Kew BridgePontoon GARDENS AITS KEW KEW ‘STONE’

F AR I W AY BRIDGE PIERS KEW D Active360 SUP Chelsea KyakClub EDGE CanoeClub Harbourmaster Pontoon Harbourmaster Mortlake reach OLIVER’S AIT KEW ‘RAIL’ BRIDGE CHISWICK D

‘The PetrolPumps’

BRIDGE

AY W R I A F “THE SHIP” Dragon boats Outriggers & CHISWICK MARINA

D N Crossing Bridge Chiswick D Paddling withtheebbtide Paddling withthe floodtide Paddling against eithertide FULLERS BREWERY

F BANDSTAND

A MEADOWS

I

R Club Canoe Civil Service St NICHOLAS DUKE’S THE W Chiswick Pier

A Canoe Club Y CHISWICK CHURCH “YE WHITE PIER HART” BRIDGE BARNES CHISWICK D

F EYOT A I R

reach Corney W AY D Crossing Chiswick Steps Proffitt’s Small KEY Dock D CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Thames Tunnel site Passenger vessel stop Draw dock reach Chiswick

BARN ELMS

F

A

I R DOVE HARRODS

PIER W

MILE POST

A Y Canoe Clubs & Battersea Putney Bridge 1 Rowing club(s) Sailing club Paddling club Beverley Brook ‘The BlackBuoy’ HAMMERSMITH EMBANKMENT D BRIDGE

PUTNEY

A I F R W A Y

RIVERSIDE

F

u

l

h

a

m

F

l

a PARK t s PUTNEY PIER reach Elms Barn D CRAVEN COTTAGE (FFC) 2 BRIDGE PUTNEY BISHOP’S PARK Crossing Putney D

BRIDGE RAILWAY FULHAM

F

A

I

R

W

A Y 57 DIRECTIONS TIDEWAY UPPER CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CENTRAL LONDON DIRECTIONS Central London In this part of the river Col Regs (Rule 9a) apply to all vessels .

The Central London section of the Tideway is defined As well as being busy and choppy, there are also • Paddlers should navigate to the starboard side in this Code as being between Putney Bridge and a large number of bridges, piers and moorings to of the river at all times, regardless of what the HEART OF LONDON - pages 62 – 65 Tower Bridge . negotiate . For those reasons Central London is tide is doing . Paddlers should aim to be as close not especially well suited to recreational activities, to the starboard bank as is safe and practicable BLACKFRIARS BLACKFRIARS ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL The river is very much more commercially orientated when travelling in either direction . Slacker water BRIDGE RAIL BRIDGE & MILLENNIUM BRIDGE particularly in open boats and SUPs, although kayaks LONDON TOWER OF in this section especially below Lambeth Bridge . There is found closer to the bank WATERLOO BRIDGE are better able to cope with the water . BRIDGE LONDON are much higher volumes of passenger and commuter • When water levels allow, always use the bridge CHARING CROSS RAIL Kings SOUTHWARK traffic as well as work boats and barges . The river’s Paddled boats are, however, allowed below Putney arch closest to the shore, unless it is closed (HUNGERFORD) BRIDGE reach BRIDGE CANNON STREET TOWER edge is also almost entirely walls and wharves and as but more consideration must be made to the probable • When water levels allow, always pass inside/under LONDON EYE RAIL BRIDGE BRIDGE a result the water is generally rougher and there are water conditions . There are also restrictions on who all piers unless specific advice says otherwise WESTMINSTER BRIDGE Upper HMS pool fewer places to get out of the river . may paddle in this section and at what time of day . – see pages 63–65 for details WESTMINSTER BELFAST PALACE Lambeth • Be very aware of vessels crossing, give way reach

to larger vessels and always wait for traffic LAMBETH BRIDGE to clear before proceeding

Westminster N VICTORIA RAIL Boating CHELSEA (GROSVENOR) Base VAUXHALL BRIDGE BRIDGE BRIDGE

BATTERSEA Nine Elms ROAD BRIDGE reach Chelsea BATTERSEA

CENTRAL LONDON DIRECTIONS reach Kayaking London ALBERT POWER STATION EPIC CIC BRIDGE Battersea CHELSEA reach HARBOUR BATTERSEA RAIL BRIDGE In Central London, paddlers should continually PUTNEY BRIDGE employ a Dynamic risk assessment to decide where Wandsworth the safest place to be positioned is . Putney reach Crossing There are restrictions for SUPs in central London . FULHAM WANDSWORTH RAIL BRIDGE BRIDGE These are listed overleaf and a detailed overview can River also be found on page 43 Wandle 58 59 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT BLACKFRIARS BLACKFRIARS BRIDGE RAIL BRIDGE ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL Blackfriers Pier & MILLENNIUM BRIDGE TOWER OF LONDON WATERLOO LONDON BRIDGE F A I R W AY BRIDGE Tower Pier F A I R Bankside Pier W AY Embankment Pier Kings reach SOUTHWARK CHARING CROSS RAIL Festival BRIDGE CANNON London F A Y I R W (HUNGERFORD) BRIDGE A Pier Bridge STREET AY W

R I City Pier A RAIL F TOWER LONDON EYE BRIDGE HMS BRIDGE Upper Waterloo Pier BELFAST pool Westminster Pier WESTMINSTER WESTMINSTER BRIDGE PALACE Lambeth reach

Lambeth Pier CONSULTATION DRAFT LAMBETH CONSULTATION DRAFT

BRIDGE CENTRAL LONDON DIRECTIONS Millbank Putney Bridge to Chelsea Bridge ChelseaPier Bridge to Tower Bridge

Y

A

W

R I SUP restrictions between Putney and Chelsea Bridges: A VICTORIA RAIL VAUXHALL F BLACKFRIARS BLACKFRIARS • At least one person must carry a VHF radio (channel14) BRIDGE BRIDGE RAIL BRIDGE ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL Rowing boats also use this (GROSVENOR) N & MILLENNIUM BRIDGE TOWER OF part of the river as far as Blackfriers Pier • Do not paddle 3 hours before and 1 hour after BRIDGE Westminster MI6 LONDON LONDON Chelsea Bridge WATERLOO Boating Base F A I R W AY high water at London Bridge, due to large Y Tower A BRIDGE Chelsea W St. George’s BRIDGE I R A F Pier freight vessels movements F A reach Wharf Pier I R W Bankside Pier AY Embankment Pier • Unless they hold a TSK L1, SUPs with Cadogan Kings reach SOUTHWARK Pier some experience* must have leaders BATTERSEA CHARING CROSS RAIL Festival BRIDGE CANNON London AY Nine Elms F I R W A F A Y I R W (HUNGERFORD) BRIDGE A Pier Bridge ROAD BRIDGE STREET AY with a TSK L2 at a ratio of 1:4 CHELSEA BATTERSEA reach W R I City Pier A RAIL BRIDGE POWER STATION F TOWER • Solo paddlers must have a TSK L2 Upper Kayaking London ALBERT LONDON EYE BRIDGE HMS BRIDGE EPIC CIC BELFAST pool • At night, paddlers must hold a minimum BRIDGE Waterloo Pier of TSK L1 and paddle as a group of at Cremone Wharf Westminster Pier least 3 boats . No soloing at night WESTMINSTER WESTMINSTER BRIDGE * Some experience: means have paddled PALACE CHELSEA SUP restrictions between Chelsea and Tower Bridges: on the tidal Thames on at least 3 previous HARBOUR D Often, staying close to the river Lambeth occasions reach In addition to the requirements opposite on page 60: Chelsea Battersea bank and out of the Fairway may Harbour Pier reach be the safest place for a group of • No paddling 11 .00hrs – 18 .00hrs between Good Friday Lambeth Pier paddlers to be . and September 30th BATTERSEA LAMBETH RAIL BRIDGE The area to the north of the • SUPs require a minimum of TSK L2 and must paddle Putney BRIDGE Fairway between Cremone Wharf Millbank CENTRAL LONDON DIRECTIONS as a group of at least 3 boats . No soloing Crossing Pier

Y A and Vauxhall Bridge is not used W Y • No paddling at night PUTNEY A R I W A by the commercial freight vessels R F I BRIDGE A at Nine Elms, Cringle Dock VAUXHALL F Note: Commercial groups may paddle in this area without VICTORIA RAIL BRIDGE a TSK endorsement, provided they meet the requirements Wandsworth reach Plantation Wharf and Battersea power station . Putney (GROSVENOR) MI6 set out on page 43 D Therefore this area could be used Westminster Pier BRIDGE Boating Base D Y F A A I R by paddlers, when paddling with Chelsea W St. George’s W AY I R A FULHAM F WANDSWORTH BRIDGE either tide, to keep out of the way reach Wharf Pier KEY RAIL BRIDGE of other traffic – if the needCadogan arises . Inbound line Outbound line Pier SMUGGLERS WAY BATTERSEA Nine Elms W AY F A I R Passenger vessel stop Exclusion Zone WASTE TRANSFER STATION ROAD BRIDGE CHELSEA BATTERSEA reach River Commercial freight berth D Draw dock BRIDGE POWER STATION Wandle Kayaking London ALBERT Thames Tunnel site Paddling club EPIC CIC 60 BRIDGE 61 CONSULTATION DRAFT Cremone Wharf CONSULTATION DRAFT

CHELSEA HARBOUR D Chelsea Battersea Harbour Pier reach BATTERSEA RAIL BRIDGE Putney Crossing

Y A PUTNEY W R I A BRIDGE F Wandsworth reach Putney Plantation Wharf Pier D D F A I R W FULHAM AY WANDSWORTH BRIDGE RAIL BRIDGE

SMUGGLERS WAY WASTE TRANSFER STATION River Wandle 62 CENTRAL LONDON DIRECTIONS on weekendmornings. section before 10.00am small boatstotransitthis The PLAstrongly encourage from around 10.00am. sightseeing tripsstilloperate, don’t run atweekendsbut months. Commuterservices especially inthesummer busiest partoftheTideway, Tower Bridgesisbyfarthe Between Westminster and The HeartofLondon CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT • • • • Heart ofLondon–GeneralAdvice from behindaswellinfront water andbeaware ofwash Expect highwavesandrough is highlyrecommended understand trafficmovements Use ofapersonalVHFtohelp extreme cautionatalltimes lookout andproceed with Keep averygood,proactive advised inthepanelleft this sectionoutsidethetimes should attempttonavigate and qualifiedTidewaypaddlers Only themostexperienced Looking downriverat Waterloo Pierand CharingCross RailBridge • • • them whiletheyare stopped rather thanattempttogoaround at apier Clipper servicesrarely spendlong helm ofmotorvessels try tomakeeyecontactwiththe Make yourintentionsclearand following pages to thisare detailedonthe edge oftheriver–exceptions before returning tothestarboard helm ofanyvesselcanseeyou tight group andensure thatthe inside/under piers.Dosoasa When waterlevelsallow, pass .Letthemleavethepier very busy extreme cautionasthis pieris If indoubtgo outsidebutwith experienced paddlers orleaders. only beconsidered bythemost inside Westminster Piershould A decisionwhetherornot to go Westminster Pier the tidalsetonebb. the Fairwaytoclear, beaware of in immediately around theoutsidethentuckback they are certainthatitissafetogo Pier Waterloo Pier vessels from goinginside/under There are barrierstoprevent Waterloo Pier Never goinsideEmbankmentPier Embankment Pier require particularattention: There are three piersthat causing rough waterconditions. tourist andcommutertrafficoften Bridge isextremely busywith Bridge andCharingCross Rail The riverbetweenWestminster Westminster .Paddlersshouldwaituntil . .Thisisaverybusy .Whenwaitingfor . CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Westminster Pier (70m Exclusion Zone) PALACE WESTMINSTER Embankment Pier RAIL BRIDGE (HUNGERFORD) CHARING CROSS WATERLOO BRIDGE

Lambeth reach F A I R W AY BRIDGE WESTMINSTER Waterloo Pier LONDON EYE Festival Pier

Kings reach 63 DIRECTIONS LONDON CENTRAL

F

A

I

R

W

A

Y BLACKFRIARS BRIDGE Blackfriars Pier RAIL BRIDGE BLACKFRIARS Kings reach MILLENNIUM

BRIDGE

Bankside F A ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

Pier I

R W

RAIL BRIDGE A Y SOUTHWARK CANNON BRIDGE STREET London Bridge BRIDGE LONDON

City Pier

F

A

I

R

W

A Y BELFAST HMS Tower

Pier Upper pool Upper BRIDGE TOWER TOWER OF LONDON ST. KATHARINE’S DOCK Westminster Pier Westminster Pier (70m ExclusionZone) PALACE WESTMINSTER PALACE WESTMINSTER Embankment Pier Embankment Pier RAIL BRIDGE (HUNGERFORD) CHARING CROSS RAIL BRIDGE (HUNGERFORD) CHARING CROSS WATERLOOWATERLOO BRIDGE BRIDGE

Lambeth reach F A I R W AY BRIDGE BRIDGE WESTMINSTER WESTMINSTER Waterloo Pier Waterloo Pier LONDON LONDON EYE EYE Pier Festival Pier Festival

Kings reach 64 CENTRAL LONDON DIRECTIONS • • paddlers shouldnotgoinside. go insideinstead.Inexperienced should betakenifchoosingto recommended andextreme care Going outsideBanksidePieris Pier soisespeciallyhazardous . river ‘funnels’behindBankside with theriverfloworbank, Due tothepiernotbeinginline Bankside Pier can alsoincrease waveheight. increases instrength here which As aresult thetidalstream Blackfriars andLondonBridges. The rivernarrows alittlebetween Bankside Pier

F

A best to waitforthem pier forlongso itisgenerally services willnot stopatthe Remember that Clipper approaching from behind other vessels–whichmay be your intentionsveryclearto ebb tide.You should make should take,especiallyon the made onwhichlinethegroup An earlydecisionshouldbe

I

R

W

A

Y BLACKFRIARS BLACKFRIARS BRIDGE BRIDGE CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT • • reappear from behind it less chanceof seeingyouas passenger vessels mayhaveeven If youdecide to gobehindthepier, seen youbefore returning tothebank the helmtoensure thattheyhave and ifpossiblemakeeyecontact with passed .Continuewellpastthebows cut-in closelyacross herbowsonce stopped onBanksidePier, don’t If youchoosetogooutsideavessel Blackfriars Pier RAIL BRIDGE BLACKFRIARS RAIL BRIDGE BLACKFRIARS Kings reach MILLENNIUM

BRIDGE

F Bankside F

A A ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

Pier I I

R R

W W

RAIL BRIDGE RAIL BRIDGE A A

Y Y SOUTHWARK CANNON CANNON BRIDGE STREET STREET caution tonavigate,especiallyoutbound. often causingrough waterconditions.Itrequires goodjudgementand particularly busysectionwithalotoftouristandcommuterrivertraffic The UpperPool,betweenLondonandTower Bridgesisanother • HMS BelfastandtheUpperpool 1 London Bridge ebb tide . particularly on thelastof can causelarge waveheight, foundations on theriverbed the effect oftheoldbridge Just belowLondonBridge BRIDGE LONDON 1

City Pier

F F

A A

I I

R R

W W

A A

Y Y BELFAST HMS CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Tower

Pier

Upper pool pool Upper Upper BRIDGE TOWER TOWER OF LONDON • • other vessels. clearly showyourintentionsto especially ontheebbtideand cons .Makeyourdecisionearly, although there are pros and also goinsideHMSBelfast It isrecommended thatpaddlers HMS Belfast Tower Pierifthewaterlevelallows . Paddlers shouldgobehind/under London BridgeCityPier the riverbetweenTower Pierand a lotofcommercial vesselscross This isanextremely busypierand Tower Pier ST. KATHARINE’S • • • • • traffic More visibletoother river below More easilyavoidsmoorings Outside HMSBelfast? Easier torecover toshore Less traffic Less wash Inside HMSBelfast? DOCK

. 65 DIRECTIONS LONDON CENTRAL 66 LOWER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS boats andSUPmaynotpaddleonthissectionalall. less suitedtorecreational activities,particularlyinopen to getoutare stillfewandfarbetween.Thissectionis more open.Thewatercangetveryrough andplaces industrial past)andtheriverisnowmuchwider river’s edgeismostlywallsandwharves(ahintofthe Barrier butregular commuterservicesdostillrun.The The riverislesscommercially orientatedabovethe Barrier paddlers rarely venture muchbelowtheThames Bridge outtotheestuary, althoughinpracticalterms The LowerTidewayisthepartofriverbelowTower Lower Tideway . CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT www.boatingonthethames.co.uk/Rowing is availableonthePLAleisure userswebsite be foundonpages36–39andthefullRowingCode Essential detailsonhowtheRowingCodeworkscan • • (seediagram right): navigation patterns to theprobable conditionsandthere are twodifferent Lower Tidewaybutmore considerationmustbemade Other paddled(androwing) boatsare abletousethe Code Area only appliestorowing boatsintheLowerRowing The RowingCode(aka.workingtheslacks) Col Regsapplytoallvesselsexceptrowing boats Place holder accordingly –seepage39 . aware ofrowing boatsthatdoandadjusttheirgroup shape Paddlers donotworktheslackssomustbeparticularly Fairway andColRegsapply When navigatingwiththetidalstream, rowers mustusethe when navigatingagainstthetidalstream . Rowers are obliged toworktheslacksinInshore Zones Cherry Garden Pier toIslandJetty Lower RowingCodeArea BRIDGE TOWER DOCK ST. SAVIOUR’S ST. KATHARINE’S Upper Pool DOCK Shadwell BasinOutdoor Activity Centre Garden Cherry Pier

SHADWELL N Tower HamlettsCanoeClub BASIN Lower Pool CUCKHOLD’S . Limhouse reach POINT SOUTH DOCK MARINA MARINA LIMEHOUSE LIMEHOUSE LINK Sports Centre Docklands Water CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT Depford Creek CANARY WHARF ISLE OF SOUTH WEST DOGS INDIA DOCK CUTTY SARK INDIA DOCK EAST ARENA Blackwall reach Greenwich reach Greenwich 02 • • vessel canseeyoubefore returningtotheshore (starboard ) piers asatightgroup and ensure thatthehelmofany Where water levels allow, alwayspass inside/underall as issafeandpracticable–travellingineitherdirection Paddlers shouldaimtobeasclosethestarboard bank river atalltimes,regardless ofwhatthetideisdoing. Paddlers shouldnavigatetothestarboard sideofthe Bow Creek CABLE CAR EMIRATES AIRLINE Bugsby’s reach • SUP restrictions belowTower Bridge: place tobepositioned is. assessment todecidewhere thesafest continually employaDynamic risk In theLowerTideway, paddlersshould Island Jetty SUP is not permitted belowTower Bridge BARRIER THAMES

Dragonboat Club Thames DOCKS ROYAL 67 DIRECTIONS TIDEWAY LOWER CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT LIMEHOUSE N LOWER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS Tower Bridge to Greenwich LIMEHOUSE MARINA Bow Creek Greenwich to the Thames Barrier MARINA Bow Creek East India Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre LIMEHOUSE Trinity East India Dock Jubilee Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity CentreTower Hamletts Canoe Club LIMEHOUSE LINK Dock Trinity ST. KATHARINE’S A I R W AY Jubilee Pier Tower Hamletts Canoe Club F LINK ST. KATHARINE’S DOCK A I R W AY Pier SHADWELL F Blackwall DOCK Y Paddlers must obtain permission SHADWELL BASIN W A Blackwall I R (Rowing) Crossing A Y F BASIN CUCKHOLD’S Canary Wharf W A from London VTS (VHF channel 14) I R (Rowing) Crossing A EMIRATES AIRLINE CUCKHOLD’S POINT Canary Wharf Pier CANARY F EMIRATES AIRLINE CABLE CAR to transit the Thames Barrier . POINT Pier CANARY WHARF Nelson Dock WHARF CABLE CAR VTS will advise which span to take . SurreyNelson Entrance Dock (Hilton) Pier 02 Wapping Surrey Entrance (Rowing)(Hilton) CrossingPier 02 ARENA TOWER Pier Bugsby’s reach Wapping (Rowing) Crossing South WestARENA North TOWER BRIDGE Butler’s Pier South West India Dock Bugsby’s reach THAMES F A I R W AY Lower Pool West India Pier North Greenwich BRIDGE Butler’s Wharf India Dock THAMES BARRIER F A I R W AY Lower Pool West India Pier (Seacons) Greenwich Pier Wharf BARRIER ST. SAVIOUR’S ST. MARY’S (Seacons) Pier Island ST. SAVIOUR’S DOCK Island Upper Pool ST. MARY’S CHURCH Jetty DOCK Cherry Chalkstones Follyhouse Jetty Upper Pool CHURCH Chalkstones (Rowing) Crossing Cherry Garden Follyhouse (Rowing) Crossing (Rowing) Crossing Follyhouse(Rowing) Crossing Garden Pier Limhouse reach Follyhouse Barge Roads Pier Limhouse reach Barge Roads F A I R W AY Blackwall reach Chalkstones F A I R W AY Chalkstones Moorings Blackwall reach Moorings D Docklands Water D London Yard Greenland Pier Paddlers interacting with rowing boats – see page xx Docklands Water Sports CentreLondon Yard Moorings Greenland Pier D Sports Centre Moorings D F AR I W AY ISLE OF The lower reaches of the Tideway When paddling with the tide SOUTHF AR I W AY DOCK ISLE OF DOGS

LOWER TIDEWAY DIRECTIONS LOWER TIDEWAY below the Thames Barrier are rarely SOUTH DOCK MARINA DOGS Paddlers should be aware of rowers ‘working the slacks’ MARINA KEY used by paddlers . The estuary in in the opposite direction to you in the areas shown in Inbound line particular is very unsuitable for small, recreational boats due to the volume the diagrams . Give rowers sufficient room to pass on D Outbound line Masthouse D of large freight shipping . the inside ‘to starboard’ . Masthouse Terrace Pier D Draw dock Y Terrace Pier A D W Paddlers must make London VTS Y I R Paddling club A F A D W I R Greenwich reach (VHF channel 14) aware that they are When paddling against the tide F A Sailing club Greenwich reach afloat and of their intentions . Paddlers may utilise the slack water alongside the Greenwich Rowing club(s) Ship Tier • Continue to navigate according to river walls but must be aware that rowers are obliged to GreenwichD Rowing Inshore Zone D Ship Tier Greenwich Pier Col Regs i .e . starboard side of the ‘work the slacks’ against the tide . Therefore be conscious Greenwich Pier Passenger vessel stop Depford river at all times and aim to be as CUTTY SARK of rowers overtaking from behind on your port side in the Depford Creek Commercial freight berth CUTTY SARK close to the starboard bank as is areas shown in the diagram . Creek Vessels entering the river safe and practicable 68 69 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT The Port of London Authority (PLA) London River House, Royal Pier Road, Gravesend, Kent DA12 2BG Head Office: 020 7743 7909 Richmond Lock: 020 8940 0634 www.boatingonthethames.co.uk www.pla.co.uk

CONTACTS London Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Telephone 020 8855 0315

RNLI Chiswick www.chiswicklifeboat.org.uk Tower www.towerrnli.moonfruit.com

British Canoeing www.britishcanoeing.org.uk

Great Britain Outrigger Canoe Association www.gboca.org

Thames Regional Rowing Council (TRRC) www.thames-rrc.org

Thames Water www.thameswater.co.uk

We hope that you have found this guide useful and informative. If you have any further questions regarding the The Environment Agency Paddling Code or have any queries or suggestions regarding anything in this document, please contact the www.gov.uk/government/organisations/environment-agency PLA or British Canoeing. Additional copies are available from the PLA or you can download a pdf version from www.gov.uk/check-river-conditions-and-closures/river-thames their website. See opposite for contact details and web addresses. 70 71 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT

This booklet is a new publication by the PLA . With thanks to the contributors to this the first (2016) edition: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Port of London Authority, British Canoeing, Great Britain Outrigger Canoe Association, London Kayak Company, (Inside rear cover) Active360, British Dragon Boat Association, RNLI .

Original photographs by PLA and Neil Pickford Original illustrations by Neil Pickford (Tideway diagrams based on data supplied by PLA Hydrographic services) Designed & typeset by Neil Pickford – neilpickford@mac .com Printed by ft solutions – info@ftsolutions .co .uk

The publisher has made every effort to ensure the content is correct, but takes no responsibility for its accuracy . All information in this book was correct at the time of printing and all copyrights sought . Identification of any club or individual within the photographs used is coincidental and without agenda . No part of this document may be reproduced without permission . ©2016 All rights reserved 72 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT CONSULTATION DRAFT

CONSULTATION DRAFT